'World is witnessing Schumacher's long goodbye'

A doctor who has known of Formula One legend Michael Schumacher throughout his career has said that he is concerned for the stricken racer and is afraid that the world is witnessing his long goodbye.

Schumacher is being cared for in a purpose-built clinic in the grounds of his Swiss mansion, as his wife Corinna tells friends that she hopes he would walk, talk and feel again.

But despite her hopes and positive announcements from Schumacher's race team, Dr. Gary Hartstein said that he is concerned. He said that as time goes on it becomes less and less likely that Schumacher would emerge to any significant extent, The Daily Star reported.

The seven-times world champion driver's world was thrown into turmoil after a skiing accident in Meribel, France, last December, when he suffered devastating head injuries after hitting rocks at high speeds on the slopes.

The champion was put in a medically induced coma after being airlifted from the side of the mountain.

Five weeks ago Schumacher was moved from a rehabilitation centre to his home-based clinic and his wife has been at his side every day.

Image: Michael Schumacher

Photograph: Mark Thompson/Getty Images