Jean Todt says Michael Schumacher is 'fighting' in recovery

Old pals' act: Jean Todt and Michael Schumacher enjoyed a harmonious relationship at Ferrari

Jean Todt, the FIA president and former Ferrari chief executive, said he hopes Michael Schumacher can lead a relatively normal life again.

Todt was speaking after visiting Schumacher at the seven-times Formula One world champion’s home in Switzerland. Schumacher is recovering from life-threatening head injuries suffered in a skiing accident in December.

“He will probably no longer be able to drive in Formula One. Voilà, that’s what we can say,” Todt told the broadcaster RTL. When asked if Schumacher would be able to live a normal life again Todt said “we have to hope for that”.

Todt added that Schumacher should be left to recover in private. “I believe that what is important is that he is living, that his family is close to him, that we really believe that things will improve,” he said. “He needs time and then to be left in peace.”

Schumacher left hospital in Lausanne, Switzerland, in September. He hit his head on a rock while skiing off-piste in France and was placed in a medically induced coma to help reduce swelling of his brain.

May God grant him a fantastic recovery.