In a rare and deeply touching moment, Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher has added his signature to a helmet that will be auctioned for charity — marking one of the few public connections he’s made with the F1 world since his life-changing accident in 2013.
Though Schumacher hasn’t been seen publicly in over a decade following the traumatic skiing accident that left him with a serious brain injury, this act — made possible with the help of his wife Corinna — holds incredible symbolic weight.
The helmet, which will be worn by Sir Jackie Stewart during a special parade lap at the Bahrain Grand Prix, features signatures from all 20 living Formula 1 world champions. Corinna gently guided Michael’s hand to add his signature, simply “MS,” completing the historic set of champions’ autographs.
Stewart, now 84, will drive his iconic 1973 title-winning Tyrrell around the Bahrain International Circuit in honor of the 60th anniversary of his F1 debut. The event is more than a celebration of history — it’s also a fundraiser for a cause close to Stewart’s heart.
The signed helmet will be part of a charity auction, with proceeds going to Stewart’s Race Against Dementia foundation, a charity he created after his wife, Helen, was diagnosed with the condition. The lap and tribute will take place just 20 minutes before the start of Sunday’s race.
Sir Jackie expressed his gratitude:
“It is wonderful that Michael could sign the helmet in this worthy cause – a disease for which there is no cure. His wife helped him, and it completed the set of every single champion still with us.”
In a world where Schumacher’s silence speaks volumes, this small act reminds fans around the world that the racing icon is still very much part of the Formula 1 family — and that his legacy continues to support others in meaningful ways.
