While skiing in Meribel, France on the morning of Sunday December 29, 2013 Michael fell and hit his head on a rock. Despite wearing a helmet he sustained serious injuries. Medics were on the scene promptly and he was airlifted off the mountain by helicopter.

Doctors undertook two surgeries to remove bleeding and reduce pressure on his brain. He was put into a medically induced coma at the University Hospital of Grenoble, where doctors subsequently assessed him to be in critical but stable condition.

At the end of January, doctors began to reduce Michael’s sedation to begin the process of waking him from his coma. However, Michael’s spokeswoman said that this process could take a long time.

His family, including his father, brother, wife, children and his former team principals Jean Todt and Ross Brawn had been visiting the hospital. Michael’s family released a statement thanking people around the world for their best wishes and support.

Analysis on Michael’s medical situation has been blogged about by Dr. Gary Hartstein, former F1 Medical Delegate.