Ralf Schumacher, a former Formula 1 driver and the brother of 7-time world champion Michael Schumacher, comes out as queer through an Instagram post wherein he is seen photographed next to a man he referred to as his “partner.”

The 49-year-old German driver penned a sweet message to his partner on the caption, saying: “The most beautiful thing in life is when you have the right partner by your side with whom you can share everything.”

Ralf was previously married to Cora-Caroline Brinkmann and shares one son, David, who was born in 2001. They divorced in 2015.

German reality TV star Carmen Geiss then wrote her own message to the two on Instagram, commending Ralf who she says “plays a very special role” in her life for his “courage and honesty.”

“I want to tell you about a person who plays a very special role in my life. For many years I have known and love him infinitely. His presence in my life is a blessing, and our deep connection has only grown stronger over the years. This wonderful man has an equally wonderful son who means a lot to him and who has been a source of joy and pride for him through many ups and downs. Together they have shared unforgettable moments and built a strong, loving relationship that is shaken by nothing,” she wrote.

“Today he confessed his homosexuality. This step was an act of liberation and self-acceptance for him. It was a courageous decision that has matured in him for a long time and one he is now full of pride and confidence. His outing is not only a personal triumph but a sign that he is finally able to live and love his true identity without fear or shame.

“His courage and honesty are inspiring, and I’m endlessly grateful to have him in my life. His journey to himself is proof that love, acceptance and self-truth are the greatest forces in our lives. And I love them both with all my heart and am glad that I found two hearts.”

His son David also left the following message in the comments of his post: “I am very happy that you have finally found someone with whom you really feel that you feel very comfortable and secure, no matter if you are a man or a woman, I am 100% behind you dad and wish you all the best and congratulations!”

Many F1 fans and supporters of Ralf sent love his way in the comments section of his post and on social media. The German driver joins only a handful of past racers who are known to have publicly come out as part of the LGBTQIA+ community.

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