Column: Hakkinen offers support for Schumacher

Double Formula 1 World Champion, Mika Hakkinen has offered his support for his fellow former F1 driver, Michael Schumacher after the German has been reported as remaining in a 'stable' condition in hospital after a terrifying skiing accident.

The German, Schumacher crashed into a rock last Sunday whilst skiing in the French Alps in Meribel. The helmet that he was wearing split upon impact and Michael was transported to a hospital in Grenoble where he was placed into a medically induced coma. His condition was listed as critical, but improved in the following days and has been steadily showing signs of improvement.

Various sports personalities have offered their support for the 45-year old, most recognisably his arch-rival in the late 90's, Mika Hakkinen. The Finn, who battled wheel-to-wheel with Schumacher and saw the German take the crown four times across the span of his career as opposed to his two Championships in 1998 and 1999 is no stranger to serious injuries, after having suffered a fractured skull as well as internal bleeding after a tyre failure sent Mika slamming into the wall during the Qualifying for the 1995 Australian Grand Prix.

He offered this letter addressed to Schumacher.

"Your accident is now just another challenge. You have to fight back hard - just as we fought on the track.

As you know, I myself had a bad head injury in the past. But I survived with the help of my family and friends and the professional support of the doctors. I'm sure you will get this help as well.

Do not try to beat the clock as you don't have to set a personal best time in this race, you have to take all of the time that you need.

Take it easy,
Mika"

Tom Brooks
F1 Editor