Bianchi improving, transfers hospitals

A statement posted to Bianchi's official Facebook page from his parents, Philippe and Christine, on Wednesday said that Jules Bianchi was no longer being kept in an artificial coma and had been flown from Japan to a hospital in France.

"Jules is no longer in the artificial coma in which he was placed shortly after the accident, however he is still unconscious," the statement read. "He is breathing unaided and his vital signs are stable, but his condition is still classified as 'critical.' His treatment now enters a new phase concerned with the improvement of his brain function."

The 25-year-old remained unconscious, but doctors had stopped sedation preventing him from being able to wake, a precautionary measure taken with serious head injuries.

The Marussia driver crashed in wet conditions at the Suzuka circuit in October's Japanese Grand Prix.

Toward the end of the race, fellow driver Adrian Sutil crashed after aquaplaning in wet conditions. One lap later, Bianchi lost control on the same spot and crashed into ar recovery vehicle which was near the barriers, tending to Sutil's crashed car. Bianchi suffered serious head injuries and was immediately taken to Mie General Hospital in Yokkaichi, Japan, where he had stayed ever since.

He has now been moved to a hospital in Nice.

Bianchi's family extended their thanks to the medical team at Mie General Hospital but said they were "thankful that the next phase of Jules’ treatment can continue close to home, where he can be surrounded and supported by his wider family and friends."

Regarding Bianchi's current state, the family statement said that while his condition was neurologically stable, it "continues to be serious, and may remain so."

The Formula One season wraps up this weekend at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.