Former Formula One driver Ralf Schumacher, brother of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, has come out as gay.
Schumacher, who recently turned 49, shared the news on Instagram. He posted a photo of himself with his partner Etienne gazing at a sunset, with the caption: “The most beautiful thing in life is when you have the right partner by your side with whom you can share everything.”
German actress and close friend Carmen Geiss revealed that the couple had been together for two years. In response to Schumacher’s post, Geiss commented: “After two years, you can finally show your love to the world. I have known Ralf for over 25 years, and he has always been a great joy to me.”
Schumacher was previously married to Cora-Caroline Brinkman, a former model. They wed in 2001 and have a son, David. The couple officially divorced in February 2015 following a separation and a contentious custody battle over David, who is also pursuing a career in racing.
David expressed his support for his father, saying, “I am very happy that you have finally found someone with whom you feel comfortable and secure. I am 100 per cent behind you, dad, and wish you all the best.”
Ralf Schumacher raced in Formula One for Jordan, Williams, and Toyota, starting 180 races and achieving six victories before leaving the sport in 2007. Both Ralf and his brother Michael, who suffered a severe brain injury in a skiing accident in December 2013, are the only brothers to have both won F1 races.
