The family of Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher secures compensation after a German magazine publishes a fabricated interview generated by artificial intelligence, leading to backlash and personnel changes.
Michael Schumacher’s Family Wins Legal Battle Over Fake AI-Generated Interview
Michael Schumacher’s family has secured €200,000 in compensation from German magazine Die Aktuelle after it published a fabricated “interview” with the Formula 1 legend. The supposed exclusive interview, featured in the 15 April 2023 edition, generated responses using an artificial intelligence program.
Die Aktuelle’s cover prominently displayed Schumacher’s face, misleadingly claiming it was “the first interview” he had given since his near-fatal skiing accident in December 2013. Quotes attributed to Schumacher discussed his life and recovery, only for the magazine to reveal at the end that an AI chatbot, reportedly Character.ai, had generated the responses.
The publication faced a substantial backlash online, leading to the magazine’s editor being dismissed. Funke Media Group, which owns Die Aktuelle, issued an apology for the misleading article and the resulting personnel changes.
Michael Schumacher has not been seen publicly since his accident and continues his recovery privately in Switzerland under the care of his family, who have consistently protected his privacy. Schumacher’s career, including seven F1 world championships and 91 race wins, remains celebrated across the sports community.
