Ralf Schumacher, the former Formula One driver and brother of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, has come under public discourse following his announcement in July that he is in a same-sex relationship. Following comments from his ex-wife, his partner has now spoken out.
Cora Schumacher, who tied the knot with Ralf in 2001 and shares a son with him, revealed her feelings of betrayal and disappointment upon learning of his sexuality through social media. She claimed that it was “a stab in the heart,” describing it as affecting not just her but the public perception surrounding their previous marriage.
“I wish Ralf had included me or at least let me be part of his decision. It would have been a sign of respect.”
Ralf Schumacher during practice ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of The Netherlands at Circuit Zandvoort on August 23, 2024 in Zandvoort, Netherlands. Ralf Schumacher’s public coming out as gay has sparked comments from his ex-wife.
Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images
Her comments were met with a response from Etienne Bousquet-Cassagne, Ralf’s partner, who is disappointed over not only the fact she aired this publically but over her comments as a whole.
“I thought we had a good connection with Cora. When she arrived, she asked me: ‘Are you sleeping together?'” Etienne said.
“Yes, of course. We are together. We are a couple.
“And she was happy for us. That was okay, that was great, a great week with Cora.
“That’s why I’m disappointed now.”
Ralf has an illustrious career in Formula One, where he competed from 1997 to 2007, securing six Grand Prix victories, including a memorable win at the Canadian Grand Prix in 2001, where he shared the podium with his brother Michael. Despite his on-track successes, Ralf’s personal life has now become a focal point, especially with Cora’s allegations of psychological manipulation and infidelity during their marriage.
“During his career in F1, there were many rumors in the paddock. I asked him to clarify if what was being said was true, but he always denied it, telling me that I was imagining everything and that maybe I needed psychological help.”
She continued:
“When he announced it, it was like a stab in the heart. Coming out always affects those around you, including the ex-wife with whom you had a child.
“Today I feel used during the marriage. I feel like I’ve wasted my best years. I ask myself many questions. Was he honest with me?
“And there’s something even more important that’s on my mind: did he love me? I trusted him blindly and that’s why his word was law for me.”
Ralf responded to his ex-wife’s comments, promising that he’s always been faithful and dismissed the notion that his relationship with Etienne was a point of contention within their social circle.
“She seemed to be the only person taking issue with my relationship update,” he said, defending his relationship.
