London, Jan 16 : Formula One legend Michael Schumacher, who has been in a medically-induced following a skiing accident in late December, may reportedly never regain consciousness.

The seven-time German champion has been un consciousness for 18 days since smashing his head on a rock while skiing off-piste in the French Alps , although theoretically, the coma means that oxygen to his brain is reduced, allowing him to make a speedier recovery.

However, the Daily Star reports that a German publication had quoted medical experts who said that Schumacher's condition is so grave that there is a chance he will not awaken, adding that doctors currently have no plans to try to rouse him from his coma.

The report mentioned that patients placed in comas are usually brought out of them before 14 days, adding that doctors gave Schumacher a fresh scan this week, with a neurosurgeon fearing that the long coma indicates serious brain damage. (ANI)