Formula 1 icon Ralf Schumacher comes out as gay in landmark ...

In a landmark moment for Formula One, former driver Ralf Schumacher has come out as gay.

Schumacher, 49, shared a photo to Instagram on Sunday of himself embracing his partner named Etienne as they looked out at a sunset from a boat.

His caption, originally in German, read: “The most beautiful thing in life is when you have the right partner by your side you can share it with.”

He later shared another post captioned: “Many thanks for the many congratulations and comments. We are very happy and thank you all.”

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Schumacher is best known as the younger brother of seven-time F1 world champion Michael Schumacher, but he enjoyed a solid racing career in his own right.

Driving for Jordan, Williams and Toyota — Schumacher won six times during his F1 career from 1997 to 2007, overlapping with his brother’s dominance at Ferrari.

He was married to Germany media personality Cora Brinkmann from 2001 to 2015. They had one child together, son David who is now 22 years old pursuing a motorsport career.

German media personality Carmen Geiss shared a photo of Schumacher with his partner, along with a heartfelt message.

“I want to tell you about a person who plays a very special role in my life,” Geiss wrote.

“For many years I have known and love him infinitely. His presence in my life is a blessing, and our deep connection has only grown stronger over the years.

“This wonderful man has an equally wonderful son who means a lot to him and who has been a source of joy and pride for him through many ups and downs. Together they have shared unforgettable moments and built a strong, loving relationship that is shaken by nothing.

“Today he confessed his homosexuality. This step was an act of liberation and self-acceptance for him. It was a courageous decision that has matured in him for a long time and one he is now full of pride and confidence.

“His outing is not only a personal triumph but a sign that he is finally able to live and love his true identity without fear or shame.

“His courage and honesty are inspiring, and I’m endlessly grateful to have him in my life. His journey to himself is proof that love, acceptance and self-truth are the greatest forces in our lives.

“And I love them both with all my heart and am glad that I found two hearts.”

Before Schumacher, Mike Beuttler, who raced between 1974 and 1976, was the only openly gay F1 driver.

Schumacher remains involved in F1 as an expert commentator and his announcement was met with an overwhelmingly positive reaction by fans and the motorsport world.

F1 presenter Christian Hewgill said: “You can be LGBT+ and anything you want to be. Including a Formula 1 race winner.

“Congratulations Ralf Schumacher. Seeing someone I watched win races as a kid coming out feels huge.”

The F1 season continues with the Hungarian Grand Prix on Sunday at 11pm AEST.