Ralf, 49, who won six grand prix races during his 11-year career that ended in 2007, was previously married to Cora. They have a 22-year-old son, David.

David expressed his support on Instagram, writing: "I am very happy that you have finally found someone with whom you really feel comfortable and secure. I am 100% behind you, dad, and wish you all the best and congratulations."

Mike Beuttler, a British driver who raced from 1971 to 1973 and passed away in 1988, was the only other known gay male driver in Formula 1 history.