Bianchi out of 'Coma', back in France

Jules Bianchi out of artificial coma but still unconscious and in 'critical' condition.

The Marussia driver Jules Bianchi 25 is out of the artificial coma due to his head injuries when he crashed at the Japanese Grand prix in October. Bianchi suffered a diffuse axonal injury  when he crashed into a recovery vehicle at Suzuka circuit.

The driver however remains unconscious and is in a critical condition, according to a statement released by the family. During the race his car was collided with a tractor vehicle, recovering Adrian Sutil's Sauber who also had a crash on the previous lap.

The statement, released by his parents Philippe and Christine, "Almost seven weeks after Jules' accident at Suzuka Circuit, and following a challenging period of neurological intensive care, we are able to announce that Jules has made an important step”.

"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."

His family praised the "outstanding care" he received following the accident from doctors at the Mie General Medical Centre in Yokkaichi. "We are thankful the next phase of Jules' treatment can continue close to home, where he can be surrounded and supported by his wider family and friends," they said.

Since the crash, the Formula One governing body has begun working on plan for virtual safety car during the accidents which would force the drivers to slow down their speeds in an accidents zone follow the slow warning flags in an accident zone.