Schumacher injured in skiing accident

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher is in a French hospital after suffering a head injury in a skiing accident.

The 44-year-old fell while skiing on unmarked slopes in the French Alps and hit his head on a rock. He was attended to within minutes of the accident before being airlifted to Moutiers hospital.

Despite initial reports suggesting his injuries were serious, it is believed that Schumacher, who was wearing a helmet, is not in a serious condition.

According to the Press Association, Gernignon Christophe Lecomte -- director of the Meribel resort in which Schumacher was staying -- told Radio Monte Carlo Sport: "He was shocked, a little shaken but conscious. It may be a head injury but it is not very serious."

Schumacher retired from F1 for a second time at the end of 2012 after scoring just one podium during a three-year stint with the revived factory Mercedes team.