Michael Schumacher expected to lead 'relatively normal life within a short period of time'

The president of the International Automobile Federation has positive news for fans of the F1 champion

Michael Schumacher in 2010. The seven-times Formula One world champion has now emerged from his coma (AP)

Michael Schumacher will be able to lead "a relatively normal life" after he has fully recovered from his head injury, according to former Ferrari boss Jean Todt.

Todt is thought to have visited the former F1 champion at his Swiss home last week, where he is being cared for.

"We must assume that Schumacher can lead a relatively normal life again within a short period of time," said Todt.

"We can say he can probably never drive a Formula 1 car again. But he is fighting.

"His condition improved, and what is just as important is the fact that he is now at home with his family."

In December 2013, Schumacher suffered serious head injuries following a skiing accident in France, which left him in a medically-induced coma.

He was treated at Grenoble hospital and woke from his coma in June, before being transferred to CHUV Hospital in Lausanne nearer to his family house in Switzerland.

In September, he was taken home to resume treatment there.

Although his condition has improved, medical experts have said he may never fully recover and will always rely on the help of others.

However, Todt – who is president of the International Automobile Federation – remained positive about his recovery.

"But a long and hard road is in front of him," he said. "Hopefully things will improve. His family is close to him. He needs time and peace."

In July, his wife, Corinna Schumacher, published a letter in the Grand Prix programme thanking fans for all their “good wishes and positive energies” and also confirmed that his recovery would be a long one.

"Now we are facing a phase which will presumably take a long time," she continued. "We trust that time will be Michael's ally in this fight. Until then I would like to wish you and your families all the best as well."