It is no secret that Michael Schumacher's family has requested a media blackout to minimize the circulation of false reports and updates regarding the health condition of the stricken former Formula One (F1) superstar. However, a recent report has claimed that Schumacher fans deserved the right to know the truth regarding the seven-time F1 champ's health status.
Following the tragic skiing accident of Michael Schumacher at the French Alpine resort of Meribel in December 2013, his health condition was kept under close wraps by Schumacher's family, headed by his wife Corinna and their two children Gina and Mick. The only reliable sources of information were the family and Schumi's longtime manager, Sabine Kehm.
Michael Schumacher Fans Deserve To Know The Truth
Unfortunately, updates regarding Michael Schumacher's recovery and current health condition were scarce. That's why, a report has caught the attention of several Schumacher followers after claiming that the fans deserved to know some truthful information, Blasting News reports.
According to the publication, it is understandable to implement a media blackout to protect Michael Schumacher and to fulfill the family's need for privacy. However, patient fans should not be disregarded.
"Many of them were quite patient, but there comes a time when patient fans deserve to know more," the publication wrote. "After all, they were those sitting in front of the TV for hours watching their idol competing in different corners of the world in a time when social media didn't exist."
A Call For Transparency
This was not the first time that Michael Schumacher's family was called for transparency over the health condition and recovery of the 47-year-old retired German car racer. In fact, Mercedes chairman Niki Lauda, who completely understood the family's protectiveness, had previously urged the Schumachers to be transparent when it comes to the F1 legend's health status so fans could have some glimmer of hope while false media reports were avoided.
"The family protects him and I understand that completely," Lauda said, Daily Express quoted. "But it means that all those who would like to know something, do not. I often think of him, but unfortunately I have no contact. We all just hope, hope, hope."
In addition, Lauda emphasized that the lack of transparency on Michael Schumacher's health condition will only result to "wild speculations." He also added that a "middle ground" is needed to be able to spread real and factual updates.
Why Sabine Kehm Chooses To Keep Mum Over Michael Schumacher's Health Condition
Meanwhile, Michael Schumacher's longtime manager and spokesperson Sabine Kehm explained why there's a need to keep vital information under wraps. According to Kehm, her decision to stay silent was right so that unwarranted speculations and misinterpretations from the media were avoided.
"At the moment, I see no alternative," Kehm said, as per Zee News. "Every sentence is a catalyst for new inquiries, every word is a beacon for further information. It never dies down."
Michael Schumacher's Wife Corinna Remains Supportive To Husband
Despite the uncertainties on Michael Schumacher's condition, his wife Corinna remains very supportive of Michael's recovery. According to Sportsrageous, professor Jean-Francois Payen, the head of the Schumi's medical team, even commended Corinna for her incomparable strength, support and willpower for staying by her husband's side during this difficult ordeal.
"She has displayed in every way an exceptional willpower," Payen told Daily Express. "She knew the seriousness of the situation and the long road that lay before them. She looks at things very clearly and makes every effort."
Currently, Michael Schumacher is still undergoing rehabilitation at a highly-secured and state-of-the-art suite in his residence in Geneva, Switzerland. Fifteen medical experts who are headed by Payen are reportedly looking after the F1 champion 24/7.
Do you agree that Michael Schumacher fans deserved to know the real score regarding his health condition? Share your thoughts below and follow Parent Herald for more news and updates.