Michael Schumacher 'Can Live a Normal Life' - Jean Todt Gives Hope for Recovery

Michael Schumacher can lead a "normal life" according to former Ferrari principal Jean Todt, in what is encouraging news for the Formula One legend and his army of fans.

Todt - with whom Schumacher formed a close bond during his championship reign at Maranello - has lifted the lid on the star's recovery at home after he suffered catastrophic head injuries in a ski accident in late December 2013.

There has been next to no news about how the 45-year-old is recovering since he was released from hospital to wife Corinna and a team of carers, in early September.

Todt delivered a very encouraging prognosis in breaking the silence to Motorsport.com.

He said: "We may assume that Schumacher can live a relatively normal life within a short period of time.

"What we can say is that he will probably never again drive a Formula One car. "He fights. His condition improves, which is very important, as is the fact that he is now home with his family."

Considering that driving a Formula One was always unlikely for Schumacher - who has retired twice from the sport - Todt's words give reason to be hopeful for the German's fans.

Todt is currently president of Formula One's ruling body, the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). He was team principal at Ferrari during Schumacher's time at the team when it was dominant force in F1.