Schumacher said to be out of danger after ski accident

Michael Schumacher’s life is no longer in danger, says the German’s friend and former Formula 1 driver Philippe Streiff. He told reporters outside the hospital on Friday that Schumacher is still in a serious condition, but that it is no longer life threatening. 

Mr Streiff has referred to what the family has been told by Schumacher’s surgeon, Gerard Saillant, although no official statement has been released yet by the hospital. 

“Gerard Saillant said that it is a serious condition but his life is not in danger anymore, thankfully,” said Streiff. 

The Formula 1 champion remains in a medically induced coma, after hitting his head during a skiing accident. The doctors have reduced his brain pressure and bleeding after he underwent two operations to stabilise his condition. 

The accident occurred last Sunday, in the French Alps, at the Meribel Resort, where Mr Schumacher owns a chalet. He had been skiing with his son and the teenager’s friend when he hit a rock and was thrown into air. He hit his head on another rock, breaking his helmet. 

His manager, Sabine Kehm, denied that he has been skiing at a high speed. She added that he only entered the unmarked area after stopping to help the daughter of a friend who fell over. 

Mr Schumacher’s family is said to be overwhelmed by the support they’ve received. Corinna, his wife has been at his bedside, with their children, Gina-Maria and Mick. Fans have gathered yesterday outside the hospital to celebrate the racing driver’s 45^th birthday. 

The family has handed over a camera, which was attached to Mr Schumacher’s helmet, to the authorities to help with the investigation. His son and his friend have been questioned about the accident.

Justyna Majewska