Flavio Briatore reveals direct contact with former Ferrari star Michael Schumacher is no longer possible

Flavio Briatore has also spoken about his current connection with former Ferrari star Michael Schumacher, saying that he can’t get any closer to him than a phone call. The former Formula 1 team boss, who was instrumental in Schumacher’s rise through the ranks, said theirs is a relationship “of the heart”, while conditions are vastly different now to when the seven-time world champion suffered his life-changing skiing accident in December of the year 2013.

Briatore’s observation provides a rare public sign of how those closest to Schumacher have adjusted over time. So, while his supporters hope for further news about the German great’s condition, Former Benetton boss released a statement which makes it plain that he is not ignoring them or shut away from the world, but has taken a step back in honour.

Flavio Briatore explains why he avoids seeing Michael Schumacher

“I'm still in touch with Corinna, but unfortunately that's impossible with Michael,” Briatore told Swiss publication 20 Minuten.

Flavio Briatore, who spoke openly about Michael Schumacher's condition, reveals why he refuses to visit stricken F1 legend "I don't want to see him like that.” He has opened up on his ill-fated experiences with the phenomenon of seven-time Formula 1 world champion and longtime friend Michael Schumacher as someone who was confident through his fight for life but then lost all semblances of it when paralysis set in.

He added that he would rather remember Schumacher smiling and raising his arm on the podium in celebration of another win or F1 title than facing the stark truth of what his condition has become.

The Italian was also keen to stress that Schumacher’s family has dealt with the situation in a manner befitting of such an esteemed and well-respected individual, which he highly appreciates. He said above all, that the family’s wish for privacy should be respected, as Schumacher’s legacy is huge in motorsport.

Michael Schumacher’s condition and the lasting impact of his legacy

The former Ferrari star has not been seen in public since he suffered a traumatic brain injury during a skiing accident in December 2013. Since then, his family has shared few details on how he is coping with his health, preferring to keep updates private. This somewhat out-of-the-box way of handling his career resulted in rampant speculation, but also unwavering support from fans appreciating and recognizing the legacy he had left.

According to a recent report by The Daily Mail, he is currently not bedridden, which is extremely good news for all his supporters and Michael’s family.

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