Formula One legend Michael Schumacher reportedly made a rare helicopter journey from his villa in Majorca to Switzerland to be present for the birth of his first grandchild.
The 56-year-old flew to the family's Swiss mansion to join his daughter Gina before she gave birth last month, according to reports.
This marks an unusual trip for the seven-time world champion, who has remained largely out of the public eye for over a decade.
Gina Schumacher, 28, and her husband Iain Bethke welcomed their daughter Millie on March 29, making Michael and Corinna Schumacher grandparents for the first time.
Michael Schumacher traveled to welcome his first grandchild
PA
The couple announced the birth on Instagram, writing: "Welcome to the world, Millie. Born on March 29th, our hearts are fuller than ever. We are beyond blessed to have you in our lives."
Their post was flooded with congratulatory messages, including from the Mercedes F1 team and Max Verstappen's mother.
According to The Sun, Schumacher "rushed back to his Swiss residence a few days before the birth to join his family for the special moment."
The Formula One icon has not been seen in public since suffering a serious head injury in a skiing accident in December 2013 in the French Alps.
He was placed in a medically induced coma for 250 days following the accident and is believed to have needed around-the-clock care ever since.
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Gina is a well-known figure in the Western riding world, competing in various prestigious events.
She has been with Iain Bethke, who is also a horse enthusiast, since 2017.
The couple married at the family's villa in Majorca last autumn.
There was speculation at the time that her father attended the wedding, but Johnny Herbert, a close friend of Schumacher, dismissed this as "fake news".
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Michael Schumacher has been protected by wife Corinna Schumacher ever since his skiing accident in 2013GETTYThe young family will reportedly spend time in the US, with Gina set to compete in western riding tournaments in Las Vegas in August.
Since his accident, Schumacher's wife Corinna has created a private world around him as he continues his recovery.
This includes forming a close group of approximately 20 people who are allowed to see the icon.
According to RTL reporter Felix Gorner: "He needs constant care and is completely dependent on his caregivers. And he can no longer express himself verbally."
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Michael Schumacher's daughter, Gina Schumacher, has given birth to a baby girl
INSTAGRAMThe family has strictly protected his privacy throughout his recovery period.
The star's family reportedly hope that the exciting news will give him hope as he battles with his health, according to Bild.
Recently, Mail Sport reported that Schumacher had taken part in a charity initiative at the request of fellow racing icon Sir Jackie Stewart.
With the support of his wife Corinna, he was one of several racing greats to sign one of Stewart's helmets for a Race Against Dementia charity auction.
