Former F1 racer Ralf Schumacher (Michael's brother) 'comes out' as gay
The former Formula One driver has come out as gay, becoming the most high-profile driver in the sport's history to do so.
Ralf Schumacher (49), brother of the seven‑time world champion Michael Schumacher, took to Instagram on Sunday evening (14 July) to subtly 'come out' as gay.
The German racer Schumacher shared a picture of himself and his French business manager, Étienne, watching a sunset with their arms around one another.
The caption, posted in German, translates to 'the most beautiful thing in life is when you have the right partner by your side with whom you can share everything'.
Following positive comments from fans, Schumacher posted another picture with his business manager thanking fans for their support.
"Thank you very much for the many congratulations and comments. We are very happy and thank you all," read the caption.
While these posts do not explicitly confirm Schumacher's sexuality or relationship status, some confirmation came from comments made by his friend, the German actor Carmen Geiss.
Geiss dedicated an Instagram post to the race car driver saying (in German), "I want to tell you about a person who plays a very special role in my life. For many years I have known and loved him infinitely.
"Today he confessed his homosexuality. This step was an act of liberation and self-acceptance for him. It was a courageous decision that has matured in him for a long time and one he is now full of pride and confidence," Geiss continued.
Since the championship began in 1950, only two other F1 drivers have come out as gay: Mike Beuttler, who drove in F1 between 1971 and 1973, and Lella Lombardi, the Italian who entered 17 races between 1974 and 1976 and remains the only woman to have scored points in the championship.
Motor racing also now has the organisation Racing Pride working to promote LGBTQ+ inclusivity and equality across the sport and the broader industry, which was founded in 2019 and has received support from drivers, F1 teams and organisations such as the British Automobile Racing Club.