Paris, Jan 30 (IANS): Retired seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher is gradually being brought out of his medically induced coma, The Independent quoted his manager Sabine Kehm as saying Thursday.

"Michael’s sedation is being reduced in order to allow the start of the waking up process which may take long time," Kehm said while updating the media over the condition of Schumacher, who struck his head on a rock while skiing off-piste Dec 29 at the Meribel resort in the French Alps.

"For the protection of the family, it was originally agreed by the interested parties to communicate this information only once this process was consolidated. Please note that no further updates will be given," she added.

Schumacher has undergone two operations to reduce swelling on the brain and remove blood clotting that had formed due to the severe damage he suffered.

He is being treated at the Grenoble University Hospital, 480 km from Paris.