Schumacher family collects F1 legend's prestigious State Prize

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.

"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."

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.