GOAT Turns 50: Tributes Come Pouring In For Formula One Star Michael Schumacher On His Birthday

Long considered the greatest Formula One driver of all time, the seven-time world champion, Michael Schumacher, turned 50 on Thursday. Formula One fans paid tribute to the sport’s most successful driver with a mixture of sorrow and celebration, reports The Hindu.

The legend from Germany has not been seen in public since he suffered red brain injuries due to a recreational skiing accident in the French Alps five years ago.

“Our champ turns 50 today. We're all with you Michael #KeepFighting,” said Ferrari, celebrating the driver who won five titles between 2000 and 2004.

“Michael, you've always been a fighter, and you always will be,” said former Ferrari boss Jean Todt.

The focus on Thursday (3 January) is to celebrate Schumacher who holds for the records of most wins and titles in the 18 long seasons he spent in racing. Schumacher’s talent is indisputable especially in wet conditions, and his ability to gel in a team and mind management set him class apart.

“As a driver, Michael took Formula One to a whole new level with his attention to detail and his technical knowledge. He did everything with great determination, from his engineering debriefs to his physical training, and was always searching for new ways to improve his on-track performance,” said Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.