Michael Schumacher turned 53 today and Jean Todt, the former Ferrari team boss and a close friend of Schumacher, wished him a happy birthday online.
The seven-time world champion spent seventeen years in Formula 1 but decided to end his career in 2012. In 1994 and 1995 he won the world title with Benetton, but the German achieved the most success between 2000 and 2004 when he became a world champion five times with Ferrari.
Several drivers, former drivers, friends and acquaintances congratulated him, but the most moving message came from Jean Todt, who has known Schumacher since he joined Ferrari in 1996: "On this special day we celebrate a great Formula One legend and dear friend. You continue to be an inspiration to all of us."