Eddie Jordan ‘BANNED’ from visiting Michael Schumacher after ski crash – but now ‘understands’ why
Former Formula 1 team owner Eddie Jordan was not allowed to visit his friend Michael Schumacher after his 2013 skiing accident by the star’s wife, Corinna, but according to a new interview, he understands why.
Jordan cited Schumacher’s wish for privacy, which Corinna has been steadfastly pursuing for nearly a decade, slimming down their circle of friends and introducing a “family only” rule for those who wish to visit the sporting icon.
In an interview with the Sun through his involvement in a betting office OLGBJordan said he “made an effort to go see Michael at first,” but was denied.
Jordan said Corinna made it clear that they “loved” him but needed “privacy” to protect her husband and his condition.
As Jordan Grand Prix team owner, Jordan was the first to give Michael Schumacher his Formula 1 break with a one-off drive at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix.
Eddie Jordan now understands why Corinna Schumacher demanded so much privacy for her husband Michael
The pair have been close friends for many years, but Jordan (L) has not seen Michael Schumacher (R) since his accident
The driver signed with Benetton for the rest of the season, before working for Ferrari and Mercedes, winning a then-record seven world championships in a storied career.
After his skiing accident in 2013, Schumacher was kept in an induced coma for six months before continuing his rehabilitation at home from September 2014.
Jordan highlighted “rules” Corinna had set about visiting her husband.
‘Privacy is such an essential aspect in sports, business and your private life. [Corinna] made some rules, I know her very well.
“She’s a sweet girl and I knew her when she married Michael, so there’s a long history of good relationships.”
Jordan clarified, “I tried my best to see Michael in the beginning and Corinna refused, and rightly so because too many people wanted to see him.
“Jean Todt was privileged to visit him because of the close bond they had from their time together at Ferrari, which is completely understandable.
“I couldn’t look up Michael and they said, ‘We love you Eddie and we’ve been involved with you for a long time, but we need Michael’s privacy and protection.'”
Todt, who was later named president of the FIA and held that position for 22 years, has previously revealed that when he visits his close friend, they often watch Formula 1 races together.
Jordan ended by sharing that he understands the situation for Schumacher’s family and their concern for absolute privacy is “horrific.”
“This was the most horrifying situation for Mick and Corinna,” he added.
“It’s been almost ten years now and Corinna hasn’t been able to go to a party or lunch or this or that, she’s like a prisoner because everyone would want to talk to her about Michael if she didn’t get to it every time.” needs to be remembered. minute.’
Jordan shared concerns about Schumacher’s son Mick, who is Mercedes’ reserve driver this season after being ousted by Haas.
It is also difficult for Mick to make a career in motorsport. If it wasn’t for his father’s pressure, Mick would probably be a much better driver than we think.
“It’s his dad though and he needs to understand that and deal with it, but my thoughts are with him.
Corinna (pictured in 2005 with her husband) has been likened by Jordan to ‘a prisoner’ in an impossible situation
Mick Schumacher joined Mercedes, ending a four-year partnership as a Ferrari junior driver after losing his seat at Haas
‘I don’t get in touch with Mick often but I loved what he said about driving the Jordan car his dad had driven, it was nostalgic and a really nice touch. Still, Mick needs his own free space and time, as everyone in that family needs.’
During last year’s Formula 1 season, driving for the American constructor, Mick shared the advice his father gave him as he started his own career: ‘Do what you love’.
“My dad was always very supportive of everything I did in karting,” said Mick.
‘Naturally. I think he tried to give me different approaches to see what was best for me, and in the end he always said to me, ‘do what you love.’