Fans Honor Schumacher on his 45th birthday

Fans of Formula One great Michael Schumacher congregate in a hospital in the French Alps on Friday to honor the racing champ on his 45th birthday.

The racing legend underwent a medically induced coma since Sunday after he accidentally struck his head on a rock in a skiing accident while on a family vacation.

Straits Times reported about 100 fans came by bus and car from Italy and from northern France and other places, saying “they felt compelled to honor a man who had given them so many reasons to celebrate in the past”.

“With all the joy he has given us, it was important for us to return the favor and be here for Michael,” one fan said.

Group of fans quietly assembled in view of the Grenoble hospital’s windows, unfurling a large banner for Ferrari, the racing team of Schumacher, Straits Times reported.

Schumacher has undergone two brain operations since the accident. Doctors are keeping him sedated and his body at an artificially lowtemperature to help with the healing.

Doctors refused to give a prognosis for Schumacher, saying they are focused on his immediate care, Straits Times said.

Schumacher is the most successful F1 driver in history, racking up a record 91 race wins. He retired in 2012.

Moreover, Ferrari on Friday sent special birthday greetings to Schumacher, recalling the 72 victories he won from 1996-2006.

In a statement, Schumacher’s family thanked fans for their support. “We all know he is a fighter and will not give up,” read Schumacher’s website.

Source: Straits Times

Image Credit: speedblog.speed.com