Jules Bianchi is out of his induced coma and is breathing unaided

Jules Bianchi is out of his induced artificial coma and breathing unaided, the 25-year-old's family revealed yesterday.

The Marussia driver suffered severe head injuries in a horrific crash at last month's Japanese Grand Prix. But the Frenchman's parents released a statement on Wednesday that spoke about the positive progress of Bianchi's condition. The statement read: “Almost seven weeks after Jules’s accident at Suzuka, and following a challenging period of neurological intensive care, we are able to announce that Jules has made an important step.” “Jules is no longer in the artificial coma in which he was placed shortly after the accident, however he is still unconscious. He is breathing unaided and his vital signs are stable but his condition is still classified as critical. His treatment now enters a new phase concerned with the improvement of his brain function.” “Jules’s neurological condition remains stable. Although the situation continues to be serious, and may remain so, it was decided that Jules was sufficiently stable to be repatriated to his native France. We are relieved, therefore, to confirm that Jules was transferred aeromedically from the Mie Prefectural general medical centre in Yokkaichi, Japan, to Le Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, where he arrived just a short time ago. Jules is now in the intensive care unit of Professors Raucoules and Ichai, where his care will also be monitored by Professor Paquis, head of neurosurgery service. “We are thankful that the next phase of Jules’s treatment can continue close to home, where he can be surrounded and supported by his wider family and friends. We have nothing but praise for the outstanding care provided by the Mie general medical centre since the accident.”