Michael Schumacher's blackmailer to face trial: new details emerge

Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher and his family endured a harrowing ordeal when three individuals attempted to blackmail them, demanding £12 million, The Sun reports. The perpetrators threatened to release confidential information about Schumacher’s medical condition if their demands were not met.

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The scheme’s mastermind is alleged to be Markus Fritsche, a former confidant of Schumacher’s wife, Corinna. Fritsche had been part of the family’s inner circle for eight years but was dismissed earlier this year after their relationship soured.

It is believed that Fritsche stole two hard drives containing sensitive medical records detailing Schumacher’s condition. He then partnered with Yılmaz Toztürkan, a nightclub bouncer, and Toztürkan’s son Daniel to carry out the extortion. The duo communicated the threats to Schumacher's family.

The three suspects have been arrested and are set to stand trial. Authorities tracked them down using advanced technical methods. If convicted, Fritsche faces up to 15 years in prison.

This development brings some relief to Schumacher's family, who have fiercely guarded his privacy since his skiing accident in 2013.