Vettel reflects on emotional final chat with Michael Schumacher
Vettel opens up about his final exchange with Schumacher in which he shared the joyous revelation of becoming a father, just before Schumacher’s fateful skiing accident that continues impacting his life 10 years later.
December 29th marks 10 years since Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher suffered catastrophic head injuries while skiing in the French Alps, leading to an intensely private battle ever since.
A close friend of Schumacher’s, four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel has opened up about their special bond in a interview to RTL, revealing their last exchange involved Vettel sharing the life-changing news of his impending fatherhood.
Bittersweet memories of a growing friendship
Having shared the F1 grid between 2010-2012, Vettel and Schumacher developed an increasingly strong relationship where racing “was no longer the biggest thing we had in common,” says Vettel.
More important was the guidance, advice and inspiration Schumacher provided. Vettel sorely misses his friend, especially needing that reassurance during recent turbulent seasons.
Their last conversation represents bittersweet memories for Vettel. While joyfully notifying Schumacher of his forthcoming parenthood, soon after Schumacher fatefully suffered his accident.
“I told him I was going to be a father and what was coming for us,” recalls Vettel. “I really appreciated towards the end our relationship becoming stronger before the accident.”
“A recurring theme”: Vettel continues to ponder friend’s plight
Vettel concedes frequently pondering Schumacher’s ongoing plight. “It’s still very difficult,” he admits.
“I don’t want to say to accept it, but to accept that he continues fighting."
Schumacher’s stringent medical confidentiality means Vettel can only wish his dear friend the very best.
While devastating for Vettel losing his confidant, he recognises the vastly greater trauma confronting Schumacher’s family.
Vettel highlights the brutal suddenness of Mick Schumacher losing an ever-present father figure and guide during his critical adolescent years.
Schumacher's vast potential inspiration never fulfilled
Vettel rues the vast bank of inspiration and advice Schumacher could have offered in guiding his challenging recent seasons. “In recent years he would have been extremely important,” says Vettel.
He envisages Schumacher capably answering his myriad questions and offering essential reassurance when most needed.
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