Ralf Schumacher has declared his recent disclosure about his sexuality was not intended as a social or political commentary.
A fortnight earlier, the ex-Formula 1 racer captured worldwide attention when he disclosed his homosexuality.
This prompted a wave of requests from the press to various active F1 drivers and team bosses for their thoughts on the impact of a high-profile figure like Schumacher revealing his sexual orientation.
"I'm sorry they were all asked," the 49-year-old shared with the Sky Deutschland program Hardenacke Trifft. "But I can't change that now."
"I have to say, I did find it nice to see how it works in Formula 1 - with a great deal of respect," Michael Schumacher's younger brother expressed. "It was really nice to see."
Among those commending Schumacher, now an F1 TV commentator for the German market, was Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion known for his vocal stance on various social issues.
Yet, Ralf asserts that his decision was devoid of any political underpinnings.
"This was purely selfish for Etienne and me," he stated. "I wanted it to be clear and unambiguous who the partner at my side is so that I can live a normal life."
"I just hope that we can have some peace and quiet. That's why we haven't commented on it much and we won't comment on it much anymore," he added.
"So no, I don't want to stand for anything here. I honestly didn't expect this much attention, or for it to be discussed so publicly. I thought it would be a bit out of the spotlight."
In other news, Ralf is set to end a ten-year absence from racing in mid-August by joining forces with his 22-year-old son, David, for the ADAC Prototype sports car event at the Nurburgring.
"You can't call it a comeback," Schumacher explained to the SID news agency. "I just want to drive a race with my son.
"It will be very special for me, and that was the whole point, while I'm still at an age where I can do it and feel fit."
David anticipates outperforming his father in the cockpit. "Dad's strengths now are in setting up the car," he noted, adding with a smile, "In terms of driving, I should be better."
Ralf, with a grin, responded, "I assume that's right."
