Michael Schumacher’s manager ‘tied up and injured’ in shock attack at home
A horrific story has emanated from Germany in which the manager of legendary F1 driver Michael Schumacher was caught up in a terrifying incident in his home
View 3 Images
A close aide of Michael Schumacher has been caught up in a terrifying attack(Image: Photo by Lars Baron/Bongarts/Getty Images)
The former manager of Michael Schumacher was ‘tied up and robbed’ in a terrifying home invasion. Willi Weber, 83, was at his home in Stuttgart when the chaotic incident occurred.
Weber, who is best known for overseeing Schumacher’s historic F1 career, which saw him win seven F1 world drivers championships, claimed he was left with a ‘black eye’ in the attack. His villa is located in what has been described as a “quiet neighbourhood” in Stuttgart.
At the time of the invasion, he claimed there were many other people inside, who were also bound up by the individuals who broke into the house. Weber told German publication BILD the incident unfolded on Tuesday evening, and he was not the only person in the vicinity to be tied up and robbed.
He said: “I have a black eye; the police are here talking to me. I feel terrible.” He also stated he was left “completely in shock” by the terrifying attack.
It’s been reported several safes were broken into with the valuables inside, which are yet to be identified, being taken, as Weber and those around him watched in horror. The extent of the losses is yet to be fully determined.
Weber also said one of his acquaintances managed to free himself from the restraints about an hour into the invasion. After alerting the authorities, the invaders left the villa.
Local police forces are understood to have launched a large-scale investigation into the break-in. A list of suspects or a possible motive is yet to be ascertained by the authorities.
It’s also believed the authorities have begun interviewing witnesses and viewing any surveillance footage from the area. Weber holds a prominent place in F1 history.
View 3 Images
Weber is 83 years old(Image: 2024 Getty Images)
While his management company also looked after the interests of glamour model Naomi Campbell, he is best known for managing Schumacher’s career. He was the one who helped instigate the legendary German’s move from Benetton to Ferrari, inspiring five of Schumacher’s seven F1 world titles.
He met the iconic driver in the 1980s, when he was racing in the junior ranks. Weber would go on to guide Schumacher through the junior categories and Formula 3 before he helped secure his place in F1 with his first team, Jordan.
Weber also went on to manage Schumacher’s brother Ralf, as well as fellow German Nico Hulkenberg. His portfolio also boasts DTM champion Timo Scheider and Dakar Rally winner Jutta Kleinschmidt.
View 3 Images
Weber and Schumacher have known each other since the 1980s(Image: Photo by Patrick HERTZOG / AFP via Getty Images)
In 2023, Weber opened up about the effect of Schumacher’s horrific skiing accident in France, which left the F1 icon in a coma. Few people are aware of his condition, with his wife Corinna refusing to disclose any details.
Weber told the Cologne Express: “When I think about Michael now, unfortunately, I no longer have any hope of seeing him again. No positive news after ten years,” while also adding: “I should have visited Michael in the hospital. I mourned like a dog after his accident.”
