Schumacher out of coma, leaves hospital

Michael Schumacher, who suffered serious head injuries in a skiing accident last December, is no longer in a coma, according to his management.

Furthermore, the seven-time world champion has now left Grenoble’s University Hospital in France to ‘continue his long phase of rehabilitation’.

“His family would like to explicitly thank all his treating doctors, nurses and therapists in Grenoble as well as the first aiders at the place of the accident, who did an excellent job in those first months,” read a statement.

“The family also wishes to thank all the people who have sent Michael all the many good wishes to Michael. We are sure it helped him.”

Schumacher, 45, was placed in an induced coma after falling and hitting his head on a rock during a family ski trip. The German’s medical team began reducing his sedation at the end of January.

“For the future we ask for understanding that his further rehabilitation will take place away from the public eye,” concluded Monday’s statement.

With seven drivers’ titles, 91 Grand Prix victories and 68 pole positions, Schumacher remains the most successful driver in Formula One history. He retired at the end of the 2012 season.