Former team-mate speaks out after Michael Schumacher's public gesture: "Hopefully, it's a sign"

Michael Schumacher signed a helmet, which was auctioned off for Sir Jackie Stewart's Race Against Dementia charity.

Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert has spoken about Michael Schumacher's recent signing of a racing helmet, which was auctioned off for Sir Jackie Stewart's dementia charity.

Herbert, who is one of Schumacher's former team-mates, shared his hope that this rare public gesture might signal positive developments in the F1 legend's condition.

It was revealed in April 2025 that Schumacher had signed a special helmet for Sir Jackie's charity, Race Against Dementia. With help from his wife, Corinna, the former driver added his initials to the helmet, which was signed by all living F1 world champions.

Sir Jackie told the Daily Mail at the time: "It is wonderful that Michael could sign the helmet in this worthy cause – a disease for which there is no cure. His wife helped him, and it completed the set of every single champion still with us."

During a recent interview with FastSlots, Herbert spoke about the helmet signing:

"It was a wonderful moment. We haven't seen something emotional like this in years, and hopefully, it's a sign.

"Hopefully, Michael is on the mend. It's been a long, horrible journey for the family, and maybe we'll hopefully see him in the F1 paddock soon.

Johnny Herbert, FIA steward

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / Motorsport Images

"Michael Schumacher making an appearance at an F1 race weekend would be one of those special moments from one of the greatest drivers we have ever seen.

"It would be so welcomed, not just from everyone in the paddock, but everyone around the world. Considering the awful situation he found himself in, and to battle back against it, it would be amazing. I hope we continue to hear this positive news more often."

Schumacher's F1 career spanned from 1991 to 2012. He achieved a record-setting seven drivers' titles in 1994, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004 - a record which Lewis Hamilton later matched. On top of his championships, Schumacher also secured 91 race wins, 155 podium finishes, and 68 pole positions.

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