The legendary F1 career of Michael Schumacher was honoured in an emotional ceremony in Germany this week.
Schumacher, 53, has not been seen publicly since his harrowing skiing accident back in 2013, whilst on a family holiday in Grenoble. It left the ex-Ferrari driver with life-changing injuries, but his family have continued to keep his condition private.
But on Wednesday, his family attended a special night where the seven-time world champion was awarded the State Prize of North Rhine-Westphalia. Although son Mick, currently competing in F1 with Haas, was absent due to illness - wife Corinna and daughter Gina-Maria were there on his behalf.
And Corinna, 53, was reduced to tears as the star was given a standing ovation by everyone in attendance. Also by her side was former FIA President and Ferrari chief Jean Todt, an influential figure during Schumacher's time at the Scuderia.
And after the ceremony Todt, 76, tweeted: "An emotional Ceremony in Cologne to honour Michael Schumacher's outstanding career and charitable streak with Corinna, Gina, Mick Schumacher and Henrik Wust. I met Michael 30 yers ago, with Ferrari, living his passion and bringing joy to millions of us!"
The official Staatskanzlei NRW account had earlier posted: "Welcome to North Rhine-Westphalia: Michael Schumacher's wife Corinna and daughter Gina Schumacher came to Cologne today to accept the #Staatspreis for Michael Schumacher! Jean Todt holds the laudatory speech - as a former Ferrari team boss."
And speaking to Bild, Todt said the ovation afforded to the all-time great was touching: "That's just natural," he said. "No one planned it to be so emotional that tears were shed by Corinna, but sometimes it's good to not always control yourself."
Schumacher started 306 Grand Prix races in his storybook career, and also drove for Jordan and Benetton - where he won two world titles, before joining Ferrari. After retiring, he later returned for a short stint with Mercedes.
And earlier this week, Todt gave a rare insight into his life post-accident. Speaking to German broadcaster NTV, he revealed the pair still watched F1 races together.
“I don't miss Michael. I can see him. But of course, what I miss is what we used to do together," he said, before being asked to clarify if the rumour was true: "Yes it's true - I watch the races with Michael."
Despite his absence, Mick Schumacher will still be expected to compete at the French Grand Prix this weekend as he bids to continue his improved run of form. At the British Grand Prix this month, he finally ended his wait for a first F1 point with the American team with an eighth-placed finish.
He followed that up by coming sixth in Austria, leaving him 15th in the standings on 12 points. Teammate Kevin Magnusson sits 11th on 22 points.
