Fresh hope for Schumacher
Formula One boss Ross Brawn has revealed fresh hopes on the health of stricken superstar Michael Schumacher.
The seven-time world champion has just celebrated his 50th birthday, five years after a skiing accident left him brain damaged and living a life of isolation at his Swiss residence.
While his family have maintained secrecy about his ongoing health, Brawn offered a rare glimpse into the situation and ongoing optimism.
‘‘We’re all optimistic about finding solutions in the future and there will be a time when things move forward for Michael,’’ Brawn, Formula One’s head of motorsport who helped mastermind Schumacher’s success at Benetton and Ferrari, told the BBC.
Brawn said the Schumacher family continued to function with his children doing well at their own sporting dreams.
‘‘They are a terrific family, very well balanced, they’re following their own pursuits as well as supporting Michael,’’ Brawn said.
‘‘We’ve seen Mick, his son, establishing himself in motor racing, and Gina Maria is quite involved in a form of equestrian, she’s been very successful with that.
‘‘Corinna, Michael’s wife, that’s helped her through such a tough time. They have never relented with their support for Michael and their belief there will be solutions ahead.’’
Brawn has been one of the few people allowed to visit Schumacher.
‘‘It’s very difficult, for the privacy that the family want, and I have to respect that.
‘‘They [early visits to the hospital] were very moving in the early days.’’
While Schumacher has been treated at his home, there continues to be speculation of moving him to a specialist facility in the United States.
Ferrari are running a special exhibition to celebrate Schumacher’s 50th birthday, highlighting his successes that included 91 victories and 155 podiums.