Schumacher walking claims denied

Michael Schumacher’s manager has said claims the seven-time Formula One champion has started walking again are untrue and have given “false hopes” to his supporters.

The F1 legend sustained serious brain injuries after hitting his head on rocks while skiing near the French resort of Meribel almost two years to the day.

Schumacher was allowed to return home from hospital last September and German magazine Bunte this week published a story stating that the 46-year-old was now able to walk and could lift his arm above his head.

The magazine was quoting a “confidante” of Schumacher, with the report claiming the German was “very thin — but he can once again walk a little with the help of his therapist”.

However, Schumacher’s manager Sabine Kehm rubbished the claims and stated that is not the case.

“Unfortunately, we are forced by a recent press report to clarify that the assertion that Michael could move again is not true,” Kehm said in a statement.

“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.”