Seven-time F1 world champion Michael Schumacher was celebrated on Wednesday at Motorworld in Cologne where his family was given the prestigious State Prize awarded to the F1 legend by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia.
The annual distinction, which is the highest honour available to a civilian, was granted to Schumacher in recognition for his outstanding achievements in Formula 1.
Surrounded by the great driver's private collection of cars and memorabilia harbored at Motorworld, an emotional Corinna Schumacher accepted the award in the name of her husband, with daughter Gina and close family friend Jean Todt at her side.
Mick Schumacher was unfortunately absent from the ceremony, the Haas driver feeling a bit under the weather. However, his presence at this weekend's French Grand Prix is not in doubt.
An emotional Ceremony in Cologne to honour Michael @schumacher’s outstanding career & charitable streak with Corinna, Gina, @SchumacherMick & PM @HendrikWuest. I met Michael 30 yrs ago, with @ScuderiaFerrari, living his passion & bringing joy to millions of us! @keepfighting pic.twitter.com/GipU214VEf
— Jean Todt (@JeanTodt) July 20, 2022
"Today we are paying tribute above all to Michael Schumacher beyond racing and the glare of the spotlight: a person who has a big heart and for whom it has always been important to think of others," stated North Rhine-Westphalia Prime Minister Hendrik Wust.
"Michael Schumacher also has those who are not well off in mind. He helped them with extremely generous donations, usually very quietly. His family continues this charitable commitment."
