Michael Schumacher “cannot walk” and is unable even to stand without assistance, his lawyer has told a court in Germany.
The extent of the former Formula 1 world champion’s injuries were revealed during court proceedings against German magazine, Bunte.
Schumacher has taken the publication to court after it reported last year that the 47-year-old could walk again.
Schumacher’s family have tried hard to protect the sportsman’s privacy since his skiing accident three years ago.
Felix Damm, Schumacher’s lawyer, told the court in Hamburg: “He cannot walk,” the Telegraph reports.
The world champion is not able to stand without the help of therapists, Damm said.
Schumacher sustained a serious head injury while skiing in France in 2013. He was airlifted to hospital and placed in a medically induced coma.
He remained in the coma for six months before being transferred to his home in Switzerland.
Bunte quoted a source saying the former racing driver was able to walk again. Schumacher’s family quickly denied the reports.
Schumacher’s agent, Sabine Kehm, released a statement at the time denying the story, saying: “Unfortunately we are forced by a recent press report to clarify that the assertion that Michael could move again is not true.
“Such speculation is irresponsible, because given the seriousness of his injuries, his privacy is very important. Unfortunately they also give false hopes to many involved people.”
The sportsman’s family are suing the magazine for €40,000 to €100,000 (£34,000-£85,000) for invading his privacy.
A verdict is expected next month.
