Michael Schumacher latest: F1 legend showing 'moments of consciousness and awakening' claims manager

Seven-times Formula 1 champion has been in a coma since December

Michael Schumacher is 'showing moments of consciousness' (GETTY IMAGES)

The seven-times Formula 1 champion Michael Schumacher is “showing moments of awakening” after three months in a coma in a hospital in Grenoble, his manager revealed today.

"Michael is making progress," Sabine Kehm said in a formal statement. "He shows moments of consciousness and awakening."

Previous updates on Schumacher's condition had spoken of the motor racing legend showing signs of responding to stimulus. Today’s statement implies that he has progressed beyond that stage but medical precedents suggest that, after three months in a coma, his chances of complete recovery are slight.

SCHUMACHER 'SHOWS SIGNS OF ENCOURAGEMENT'

Schumacher crashed head first into a rock while skiing off-piste at Meribel in the French Alps on 29 December last year. He has been in a coma at Grenoble University Hospital since.

The 45-year-old has undergone two operations to reduce pressure on his brain caused by swelling and remove haematomas, and the news today comes as his first significant improvement since effort began at the end of January to awaken Schumacher.

Schumacher’s manager said no further details of his conditions would be released at this stage.

The German was skiing with his son between three and eight metres from the piste when his skis struck a rock hidden in the snow. He was projected for two to three metres and his head struck another rock. His helmet was split in two by the force of the collision.