It’s been over eleven years since Michael Schumacher, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, suffered that life-changing skiing accident in Méribel, France. Since then, his health status has been kept tightly under wraps, a decision made by his family—led by his wife Corinna, who has fiercely defended his right to total privacy. But a recent investigation by British newspaper The Telegraph has dropped a major detail that’s caught the attention of the racing world: only three people outside the family have direct access to the former driver.

Three names tied to Ferrari history

These three trusted individuals are all deeply linked to Schumacher’s career. First, there’s Jean Todt, the former Ferrari team boss, who’s seen as a father figure to Michael. He’s said in private interviews that he visits him about twice a month, and they even watch F1 races together on TV. The second is Ross Brawn, Ferrari’s ex-technical director and a close friend, who has expressed hope for Schumacher’s recovery—even though he’s never shared any specifics.

The third person named by The Telegraph is Gerhard Berger, former Austrian driver and long-time acquaintance of Schumacher. While his access hasn’t been officially confirmed by the family, multiple sources close to the inner circle say he’s made it into the very tight group allowed to visit the seven-time world champ since his December 29, 2013 accident, when he suffered a serious brain injury after hitting his head on a rock while skiing off-piste.

A wall of privacy no one breaks

Schumacher’s current residence—reported to be either in Switzerland or Mallorca—has become a true fortress of privacy. Every bit of outside contact is tightly managed by Corinna and his spokesperson Sabine Kehm, who’ve always insisted that just like Michael protected his family during his racing career, it’s now their turn to protect him. That includes strict rules, like banning phones at family events and keeping a tight lid on any public statements.

A good example of that discretion was when Jackie Stewart’s helmet, signed with “MS,” was put up for charity auction. Every gesture, every move related to Schumacher goes through his inner circle first. Even though his exact condition remains unknown, the fact that only Todt, Brawn, and Berger are allowed to see him speaks volumes about the trust and bonds built during Ferrari’s golden years. Amid all the silence and speculation, they’re the last real connection between Michael Schumacher and the racing world that still holds him in the highest regard.