RIP, Mrs Schumacher
RIP, Mrs Schumacher
Schumacher brothers exempt from race formalities
In light of their tragic news [20/04/03 - 11:46]
Michael and Ralf Schumacher
ichael and Ralf Schumacher will race in the San Marino Grand Prix after the announcement of their mother Elisabeth's death Sunday, according to a spokesman for Michael Schumacher here Sunday. However Formula One's world ruling body the FIA (International Automobile Federation) has said both brothers will not have to participate in any pre or post-race ceremonies in the light of the tragedy.
"The FIA wants to extend its sympathies to Michael and Ralf Schumacher following the death of their mother, Elisabeth Schumacher," said an FIA statement. It is for this reason that Michael and Ralf will be exempt from any ceremonies before and after the race."
This means that both brothers, who stayed in their respective motor homes for the duration of the pre-race drivers' presentation, will not have to take part in a podium ceremony should either finish in the top three.
A spokeswoman for Michael Schumacher confirmed Sunday that his mother had died in the early hours of the morning. She had been admitted to hospital in Cologne on April 10 following the fall and had undergone an emergency operation due to internal haemorrhages but soon fell into a coma. Both drivers were informed by telephone at Imola Sunday after visiting their mother's bedside after qualifying on the front row Saturday.
World champion Michael Schumacher arrived at the track at 09:20 local time dressed in denim shirt and jeans, before his brother Ralf arrived 55 minutes later wearing a black jumper with jeans.
After not participating in the traditional driver parade, rumours suggested they could complete two laps before pulling off the track. But a spokeswoman for the Ferrari driver insisted that both brothers will race and added:
"He (Michael) does not want to talk to anyone about it and hopes his position will be appreciated. He will not take part in anything other than the race itself today."
