Jules Bianchi's family have announced that the Frenchman has made an "important step" in his recovery after crashing at the Japanese Grand Prix nearly two months ago.
The 25-year-old is no longer in an artificial coma, though he remains unconscious and is still in a critical condition.
The Marussia driver suffered a serious head injury when he collided with a recovery vehicle at the Japanese Grand Prix on October 5.
Bianchi has also been moved from hospital in Japan to a medical facility in his native France.
"Almost seven weeks after Jules's 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," read an official statement from Bianchi's family.
"Jules in 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."
The 2014 Formula 1 season concludes this weekend with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Jack Prescott
