Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher received an outpouring show of support online after revealing he is gay in a heartfelt social media post.
In an Instagram post, Ralf Schumacher, the younger brother of legendary racer Michael Schumacher, shared a photo of himself and his apparent partner admiring the sunset from a boat with their arms intertwined.
The 49-year-old German, who raced for teams like Jordan, Williams, and Toyota, secured six grand prix victories and 27 podium finishes during his decade-long F1 career. He currently serves as a commentator for Sky Sport Germany, which covered the news of his coming out.
Previously married to Cora for 14 years before their separation in 2015, Schumacher bravely disclosed his relationship by posting a picture with his male partner watching the sea together. The caption read: “The most beautiful thing in life is when you have the right partner by your side with whom you can share everything.”
His partner, named Etienne, acknowledged Schumacher’s post by sharing it on his Insta story with a loving heart emoji. Their presence together in Monaco during the May Monaco Grand Prix was evident through the posts. One picture showed Etienne wearing a Monaco GP VIP Guest badge.
Schumacher’s post inspired an influx of positive responses online. German actress Carmen Geiss commented on the post commending Schumacher and Etienne for their relationship.
Geiss expressed her love for both individuals and lauded their partnership while emphasizing Schumacher’s openness and honesty throughout their friendship. She highlighted Schumacher’s courageous decision to publicly embrace his true identity alongside his partner Etienne.
She wrote: “I LOVE YOU BOTH SO MUCH. You have the best partner, Etienne, you can imagine. After two years you can finally show your love to the world. I have known Ralf for more than 25 years and he has always been a great joy to me.”
Geiss further honored their bond by describing her appreciation for being part of their journey towards self-acceptance and love without constraints. She stressed the significance of honesty and courage in living authentically while celebrating love as a transformative force in their lives.
She added: “Always liberal, a good-hearted person who I can call day and night and above all has always been honest with me in his position.I am happy that I got to be a part of this love and even more happy for the two who searched and found each other, because I also love Étienne deeply.”