Michael Schumacher's family sue over "walk again" story

Michael Schumacher's family have sought legal action following a story published by German magazine 'Bunte' last year claimed that the seven-time Formula One world champion could walk again.

Schumacher suffered life-threatening head injuries in a skiing accident on 29 December 2013. After being in a medically-induced coma for six months, Schumacher, now 47, returned to his home on the shores of Lake Geneva where he has reportedly been receiving round the clock medical attention since.

And now lawyers for the legend have been forced to clarify the situation surrounding his health.

"He cannot walk," said Schumacher family lawyer Felix Damm, adding that the former Ferrari driver is also unable to stand, even with the assistance of therapists.

"We cannot be forced by lurid reporting to disclose Schumacher's condition," Damm is quoted as saying. "He had a protection of privacy."

In the story run by 'Bunte' last Christmas, the magazine claimed, through an anonymous friend of Schumacher's: "Michael is very thin. But he can once again walk a little with the help of his therapists. He manages to make a couple of steps. And he can also raise an arm."

However, Schumacher's manager Sabine Kehm slammed the story as "irresponsible".

"Unfortunately we are forced by a recent press report to clarify that the assertion that Michael could move again is not true," Kehm said at the time. "Such speculation is irresponsible, because given the seriousness of his injuries, his privacy is very important for Michael."

"Unfortunately they also give false hopes to many involved people."

The family of the 91-time race winner has now taken 'Bunte' to court, saying that the publication has broke German privacy laws.

However, the magazine has hit back claiming that their informant was a credible one who had previously shared correct information.

A verdict is due in October, with the judge in the case already indicating of ruling in favour of the Schumachers, with damages of a"minimum of €40,000" set to be awarded.