F1 legend Michael Schumacher's 'only way of communicating' as he makes 'public appearance'

Over a decade has passed since Michael Schumacher's life-changing accident and it has now reportedly been revealed that the Formula 1 icon communicates solely with his eyes.

The racing legend, aged 47, was involved in a tragic skiing accident in the French Alps 11 years ago, which resulted in severe head injuries. Following a prolonged period in a medically induced coma, Schumacher is now under the constant care of his devoted wife Corinna and a dedicated medical team.

The Schumacher family has maintained strict privacy regarding his condition, with very few people said to be fully privy to the health situation of the celebrated seven-time world champion.

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Nonetheless, there have been sporadic disclosures about his recovery process from individuals close to the family, one being Elisabetta Gregoraci, Flavio Briatore's ex-wife, who publicly shared that Schumacher 'communicates only through his eyes'.

Elisabetta said: "Michael doesn't speak, he communicates with his eyes. Only three people can visit him and I know who they are. They moved to Spain and his wife has set up a hospital in that house", reports the Mirror.

Although Corinna Schumacher remains fiercely private about her husband's interactions, reports suggest that Schumacher made a heartfelt appearance at his daughter Gina-Maria's wedding, described as his first public outing in several years.

The 27-year-old married Ian Bethke last weekend in a ceremony held at the Schumacher family estate in Majorca, with German media reporting that Schumacher was in attendance for the joyous occasion. While it's yet to be confirmed if Schumacher will make further appearances outside of his family's private circle, his presence at his daughter's wedding could indicate a shift in the family's stance.

Reports suggest that guests at the wedding were required to leave their mobile phones at the entrance to ensure Schumacher's privacy was maintained throughout the ceremony.

Despite his absence from the public eye, Schumacher continues to be remembered by many within the sport. His son, Mick, has followed in his father's illustrious footsteps, previously racing in F1 for Haas.

Jean Todt, former Ferrari boss, has been open about Schumacher and his recovery journey. He acknowledged that while Schumacher's family have coped 'wonderfully' since his accident, his friend is not the same person he once was.

Speaking to a French magazine late last year, Todt said: "Michael is here, so I don't miss him. [But he] is simply not the Michael he used to be. He is different and is wonderfully guided by his wife and children who protect him.

"His life is different now and I have the privilege of sharing moments with him. That's all there is to say. Unfortunately, fate struck him ten years ago. He is no longer the Michael we knew in Formula One."