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Michael Schumacher: Bernie Ecclestone reveals why he can't visit former F1 champion because he 'doesn't want to see him like that'

Schumacher is recovering from serious head injuries after a skiing accident in December 2013

Jack de Menezes
Tuesday 02 June 2015 13:04 BST
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Ecclestone appeared at Schumacher's farewell party when he left Mercedes in 2012
Ecclestone appeared at Schumacher's farewell party when he left Mercedes in 2012

Bernie Ecclestone has revealed why he cannot bring himself to visit Michael Schumacher at his home 17 months after the most successful Formula One driver suffered a ski accident that left him with serious head injuries.

Schumacher was left fighting for his life after hitting his head on a rock when he crashed while skiing in the exclusive resort in Meribel in France. The seven-time F1 world champion was immediately taken to Grenoble University Hospital where he underwent two operations to remove haematomas from the brain and reduce swelling, before being transferred to a hospital in Lausanne.

Schumacher was eventually moved back to his home near Lake Geneva last year, where has been recovering from his extensive injuries surrounded by his family.

But despite being close during Schumacher’s racing days with Ferrari, F1 supremo Ecclestone admits he wants to remember the good times he shared with the German driver – who also raced for Mercedes, Benetton and Jordan during an unrivalled career.

“I don’t want to see Michael like that,” Ecclestone said in an interview with Fox Sports.

“I remember Michael as he was. That is how I want to see Michael. If he comes back, that is how I want Michael to be.”

Ecclestone wants to remember the good times with Schumacher
Ecclestone was in charge of F1 while Schumacher was at his best
Schumacher and Ecclestone maintained a good relationship

Having been at the helm of F1 since the 70s, Ecclestone rarely shows his compassionate side given he is responsible the pressure the sport is constantly under to entertain the fans and justify its hefty ticket prices.

But his comments regarding Schumacher shows that, despite opinion, Ecclestone can express his emotions, especially on his memories of seeing Schumacher at the height of his powers when he won the title five times in a row in a relentless domination behind the wheel.

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