Pierre Gasly faces backlash for skiing post on Michael Schumacher’s birthday
Formula One driver Pierre Gasly has faced a wave of criticism from fans after sharing photographs from a skiing holiday on the same day Michael Schumacher turned 57, reports BritPanorama.
The 29-year-old Alpine racer posted a series of images to Instagram on Saturday, describing his Alpine getaway with girlfriend Kika Gomes as “snow heaven.” Gasly’s choice of attire, a red Marlboro jacket reminiscent of the Ferrari-sponsored gear that Schumacher himself frequently wore while skiing, drew particular attention.
Responses on social media were swift and pointed, with some supporters interpreting the outfit as an intentional tribute to the seven-time world champion. However, many condemned the timing as deeply insensitive, given the tragic circumstances of Schumacher’s 2013 skiing accident.
One user on X posed a critical question: “Skiing ruined Schumacher’s life forever, so how would you come to the conclusion that you have to pay tribute to the man by skiing on his birthday and posting it on social media?” Others echoed this sentiment, labelling the post “very tasteless and very disrespectful.”
Schumacher’s life changed irrevocably in December 2013 when he struck his head against a rock while skiing off-piste in the French Alps, resulting in a traumatic brain injury. These events left the racing legend in a medically induced coma, requiring constant care at his Lake Geneva residence, a fact that has been closely guarded by his family.
Moreover, heightened concerns around Schumacher’s privacy arose following multiple attempts to leak information regarding his health, culminating in a blackmail scheme in 2025 attempting to expose confidential medical details. In this case, three individuals, including Schumacher’s former bodyguard, faced trial for their involvement in stealing sensitive photographs and records.
In a more personal note, Schumacher’s daughter Gina-Maria marked her father’s birthday by sharing a family photograph from their childhood, captioning it: “The best forever. Happy birthday, Dad!” This public sharing contrasts sharply with the stringent privacy measures surrounding Schumacher’s current condition.
As the dust settles on Gasly’s controversial social media presence, it serves as a poignant reminder of the delicate intersection between celebrity culture and personal tragedy, with not all tributes perceived as they are intended.
