Michael Schumacher Dumped by £4million a year Sponsors after Ski Accident

 

Formula One star Michael Schumacher has been dumped by wealthy sponsors since the ski accident which left him 'paralysed' and close to death.

DailyMail reports that the seven-time champion is expected to lose out on more than £4million a year as a result of the decisions by companies who no longer see him as a role model for their products. Fashion firms Navyboot and Jet Set severed all commercial ties with the recovering coma victim as doubts remain over the chances of a full recovery.

Schumacher, 45, suffered severe head injuries while skiing with his family in the French Alps in
December last year.

He is currently recovering, but is said to be 'paralysed, wheelchair-bound and unable to speak', according to former racing driver Philippe Streiff.

A spokeswoman for Phillipe Gaydoul, who owns the fashion firms, confirmed the decision to the end the lucrative contract, which paid Schumacher £4million a year.

    'It is not easy for Schumacher's sponsors: paying out millions of Swiss francs per year and receiving nothing back since the crash,' said Swiss news website Bluewin

    'But must they separate in this situation from the Formula 1 legend? It is a balancing act: On the one hand, the sponsors must pursue economic objectives, which point towards for a parting. On the other hand it will not be well received in public if you are turning your back on Schumacher at this difficult time.'

Earlier this year the German mineral water company Rosbacher reportedly annulled its contract with him. It is not yet clear which other companies have severed their links with Schumacher, who is being cared for by a team of specialists at his £35million mansion on the shores of Lake Geneva.