Michael Schumacher’s daughter slammed for huge…decision. read more
Michael Schumacher’s daughter, Gina, has faced criticism from her father’s former manager, Willi Weber, for her decision to change her surname following her recent marriage. The daughter of the legendary Formula One driver, who is known for his record-breaking seven World Drivers’ Championship titles, recently tied the knot with Iain Bethke in a ceremony in Majorca. Reports from the German news outlet Bild indicate that Gina has adopted her husband’s surname, now appearing as Gina Bethke on her Facebook profile.
Weber, who served as Schumacher’s manager during his illustrious career, did not hold back in expressing his disappointment over Gina’s choice. He questioned why she would give up the Schumacher name, calling it a “brand” closely tied to her father’s legacy. “Why would you just drop such a big name?” Weber commented, suggesting he wouldn’t have made the same decision. However, he acknowledged that it was ultimately Gina’s decision, while reserving the right to express his opinion.
Despite the backlash, Gina appears to be using both names. At a recent equestrian event, she went by “Gina Schumacher Bethke,” signaling that she may not be abandoning her maiden name entirely. Furthermore, her Instagram handle remains @gina_schumacher, and she has shared wedding pictures without fully dropping her father’s surname.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing health concerns of her father, Michael Schumacher. In 2013, Schumacher sustained a severe head injury during a skiing accident in the French Alps. Since then, he has not been seen publicly, and information regarding his condition remains scarce. Willi Weber revealed his regret over not visiting Schumacher immediately after the accident, admitting that he underestimated the severity of the situation. Reflecting on that period, Weber said, “It was my fault that I didn’t visit Michael after the accident. I thought the media reports were exaggerated, so I waited—but it was too late.”
Weber also shared that he has had no contact with Schumacher’s family for over a decade. Although he had a close relationship with Michael, even viewing him as the son he never had, Weber said he has since “said goodbye to Michael in my heart” to find personal peace. He was not invited to Gina’s wedding but mentioned that his own health would have prevented him from attending.
Gina’s decision has sparked a debate about family legacy and personal choice, but she continues to navigate her own path while acknowledging her father’s enduring influence.
