German authorities have launched an investigation in relation to photos of Michael Schumacher, which were taken within his Swiss home. These photos are reportedly being sold the media by an unknown seller.
Prosecutors in Offenburg are investigating the incident as a privacy violation. This photo was allegedly taken within the German’s home in Geneva and show the seven-time World Drivers’ Champion lying in his bed.
It is unclear how legitimate this photo is, although it is understood that it must be real, since it has prompted such a response from German authorities. The photo is reportedly being offered to European media outlets by an unknown seller for roughly €1.2m.
The 47 year old retired Formula One legend suffered skiing accident in December of 2013, which left him with severe head injuries. After being in a coma from a lengthy period of time, he was transferred to his home in Switzerland on September 2014, where he continues to make his recovery. Schumacher’s family and manager have stressed to the media and public that his health is not a public matter and have pleaded that the media respect his privacy. Schumacher has always put a clear line between his public life and private life.
The photo is believed to have been taken by a friend of the family looking to make some money by smuggling secret photos from the house. Sadly, this is not the first incident of this nature which the family has had to endure. Only hours after arriving at the hospital, a journalist dressed as a priest had attempted to gain access to Schumacher’s room in France with a camera. Another incident involved a German publication which had stated that Schumacher was able to walk. This matter was taken to the German courts.
The Schumacher family recently launched the non-profit organization, “Keep Fighting”, which is intended to inspire the fans of the stricken Formula One racing legend. Health updates will continue to remain a private matter and the family continues to request their right to privacy during this difficult period.
