» Motorsport community rallies for Schumacher

A flood of tributes and well wishes have been sent from across the world’s motorsport community following the new of Michael Schumacher’s horrific skiing accident on Sunday.

The German suffered critical head injuries after falling and hitting his head on a rock while skilling off piste in the French Alps. He was airlifted to Grenoble’s Central University Hospital and underwent emergency surgery, following which he remains in an induced coma “fighting for his life”.

Many current and former F1 drivers took to Twitter and Facebook to send their messages of support, while his former employers – Ferrari and Mercedes – both issued media statements expressing their hopes for a swift recovery.

“The thoughts and sympathies of all at Mercedes-Benz Motorsport and the Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team are with Michael, his family and friends,” the Mercedes statement reads.

“We have been shocked to learn that he is in a critical condition and are closely monitoring the latest medical bulletins from Grenoble.

“We all know the depth of Michael’s fighting spirit and send him all our strength and support in this latest battle. We sincerely hope that he will make a full recovery and will be with us again soon.”

“Everyone at Ferrari has been in a state of anxiety since hearing about Michael Schumacher’s accident,” a statement from Ferrari adds.

“That includes the president, Luca di Montezemolo, who through the Scuderia team principal Stefano Domenicali is in constant contact with the family and those close to the German champion. Montezemolo has offered his encouragement and support at this very difficult time, with the hope that better news will come soon.”

Mine & my families prayers & thoughts are with Michael & his family. I wish him a quick recovery. God Bless him. The Hamiltons

— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) December 30, 2013

My thoughts are with Michael and his family at this tricky time.

— Mark Webber (@AussieGrit) December 30, 2013

My thoughts are with Michael Schumacher at this tough time.. Michael more than anyone has the strength to pull through this.

— Jenson Button (@JensonButton) December 29, 2013

Sadly & hopefully I follow news on Michael Schumacher. Lets pray for him & also for the strength & expertise of doctors guiding his recovery

— Mario Andretti (@MarioAndretti) December 30, 2013

Shocking news on the 7 time F1 Champion Michael Schumacher. The strength you showed on track will get you through this mate.

— Johnny herbert (@johnnyherbertf1) December 30, 2013

Come on Michael, give us one of those race stints at pure qualifying pace to win through, like you used to. You can do it.

— Martin Brundle (@MBrundleF1) December 29, 2013

Very shocked to hear about Michael Schumacher our thoughts are with Michael, his wife Corinna and their two children at this terrible time.

— Nigel Mansell CBE (@Mansell_Nigel) December 30, 2013

I am praying for you my brother !! I hope you have a quick recovery!! God bless you Michael. http://t.co/YJmvd56cEO

— Felipe1Massa (@Felipe1Massa) December 29, 2013

Bin in gedanken bei michael, seiner familie u freunden. Wenn einer es schafft dann #schumi. Hoffentlich gibt es bald gute nachrichten

— Nico Rosberg (@nico_rosberg) December 30, 2013

What matters in life is to remember the good times and good laughs. We r praying for u… http://t.co/3bCBcSgvqw

— Rubens Barrichello (@rubarrichello) December 29, 2013