Michael Schumacher's former manager Willi Weber violently robbed in Stuttgart home

Willi Weber, the former manager who discovered and guided Michael Schumacher's career, was violently assaulted and robbed in his Stuttgart villa. The 83-year-old was tied up by intruders who systematically looted multiple safes, escaping with valuables of unknown value and leaving Weber in a state of shock.

Why it matters:

Weber is a foundational figure in modern Formula 1 history, having shaped the career of its most successful driver. This violent crime against an elderly, health-compromised icon has sent shockwaves through the motorsport community, highlighting concerns about the safety of high-profile individuals.

The details:

• The attack occurred on Tuesday evening at Weber's home in Stuttgart. According to reports, the perpetrators broke in, restrained the 83-year-old, and methodically searched several safes.
• Other individuals were reportedly present in the house at the time. It took approximately an hour after the assault for one of them to be able to alert the police.
• Weber confirmed the incident, stating, "I have a black eye, the criminal police are here and talking to me. I feel terrible. I am completely in shock."
• The robbery bears similarities to a recent high-profile attack on Robert and Carmen Geiss in June, where armed thieves stole jewelry and cash worth around €200,000 while the residents were home.

The big picture:

The assault comes during a vulnerable period for Weber. He suffered a stroke in 2020 and battled a hospital-acquired infection in 2022, which caused significant weight loss. The once-powerful "Mister 20 Percent," known for his tough negotiating for Schumacher's contracts, is now physically diminished. For the F1 world, Weber is more than a former manager; he is the mentor and pivotal figure who helped launch a legend, making this personal violation feel particularly jarring.

What's next:

Police are investigating the robbery but currently have no leads on the perpetrators. Weber is receiving medical attention as he tries to process the traumatic event. The incident raises urgent questions about security for retired public figures linked to the sport's immense wealth and legacy.