Schumacher family issues statement on eve of 'Michael 50' celebration

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The family of F1 legend Michael Schumacher has issued a statement just a day before the opening of a special exhibition at the Ferrari Museum dedicated to the great driver on the occasion of his 50th birthday.

Schumacher's exact condition since his tragic ski accident that occurred on December 29 2013 has not been divulged by the family of the great champion, but his life and outstanding achievements will be celebrated in Maranello this month.

"We want to remember and celebrate his victories, his records and his jubilation," read the family's statement.

"You can be sure that he is in the very best of hands and that we are doing everything humanly possible to help him.

"Please understand if we are following Michael's wishes and keeping such a sensitive subject as health, as it has always been, in privacy.

"At the same time we say thank you very much for your friendship and wish you a healthy and happy year 2019."

Special app will offer fans virtual visit of 'Michael 50' exhibition

Many Schumacher fans, and indeed members of his previous entourage, have lamented the extreme protective measures enforced around their idol and the subsequent lack of information.

Formula 1 sporting manager Ross Brawn, a distinguished member of the Ferrari dream team that was in place at Maranello during the dominant Schumacher era, is among those who believe the family is right to conceal the former Scuderia driver's health.

"I am constantly in touch with [Schumacher's wife] Corinna and I totally agree with their decision," said Brawn.

"Michael has always been a very private person and that's been a guiding principle in his career, his life. His family always agreed with that choice."

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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.