London, April 4 (IANS): Formula One legend Michael Schumacher has shown signs of "consciousness and awakening", his agent Sabine Kehm said Friday.

Schumacher was put in induced coma in a Grenoble hospital in France after the 45-year-old severely injured his head in a skiing accident at the French resort of Meribel Dec 29. Doctors initiated the wake up phase Jan 30.

"Michael is making progress on his way," a statement she released Friday said. "He shows moments of consciousness and awakening."

"We are on his side during his long and difficult fight, together with the team of the hospital in Grenoble, and we keep remaining confident.

"We would like to thank you all for the continuous sympathies. At the same time we again ask for understanding that we do not intend to disclose details.

"This is necessary to protect the privacy of Michael and his family and to enable the medical team to work in full calmness," added the statement.

Earlier, the Bahrain International Circuit, venue for this weekend's race, had renamed Turn 1 in honour of the former Ferrari, Benetton, and Mercedes driver.