Jean Todt, former Ferrari boss, has revealed he maintains regular contact with Formula One legend Michael Schumacher, whilst respecting the family's wishes for privacy regarding his condition.
Speaking to La Repubblica, Todt confirmed his continued visits to the seven-time world champion, who has not been seen in public since his skiing accident in 2013.
"The family has decided not to answer the question [on his condition]," Todt said. "A choice that I respect."
The 56-year-old Schumacher receives permanent medical care, with only select individuals permitted to visit the German racing icon.
Michael Schumacher sustained life-changing injuries back in 2013GETTYTodt, who oversaw five of Schumacher's seven world championship victories as Ferrari team principal, emphasised the deep personal connection that exists between them.
"I see him regularly and with affection, him and his family," Todt revealed to La Repubblica.
"Our bond goes beyond the past work. It is part of my life, which today is very far from Formula 1."
The candid remarks offer a rare glimpse into the current relationship between the two Formula One figures, who achieved unprecedented success together at Ferrari.
Schumacher's life changed dramatically after a devastating skiing accident in 2013, which has kept him away from the public eye for over a decade.
Michael Schumacher is still visited by Jean TodtPAThe German racing legend had achieved remarkable success during his time at Ferrari under Todt's leadership, establishing himself as one of the most iconic figures in F1 history.
Since the accident, his family has maintained strict privacy regarding his condition, with only a small circle of trusted individuals allowed access to the former racing driver.
The partnership between Todt and Schumacher at Ferrari marked one of Formula One's most successful periods, though their relationship has now evolved into a deeply personal friendship.
Recent reports claiming Schumacher attended his daughter Gina's wedding at the family's Majorca villa have been dismissed as false.
The reports had suggested that guests were required to surrender their phones to prevent photos being taken of the former F1 driver at the ceremony.
However, former Formula One driver Johnny Herbert firmly rejected these claims in November.
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Jean Todt is one of a few people granted accessGETTY"It will always be a closed shop. The most recent rumour was he attended his daughter's wedding," Herbert told Flashscore.
"Unfortunately, from what I understand that was all A1 fake news and no truth in it."
