Riccardo Patrese, who raced alongside Michael Schumacher during their time at Benetton, has offered a rare insight into the German's condition more than a decade after his devastating skiing accident.
The Italian believes the 57-year-old may have no awareness of his extraordinary Formula 1 achievements.
"I am sure he does not know he is a seven-time world champion," Patrese told Hochge Pokert.
Schumacher suffered severe head injuries after striking a rock while skiing in the French Alps in December 2013, leaving him in a critical state.
Michael Schumacher suffered from severe injuries following a skiing accident in 2013
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He spent months in a medically-induced coma before eventually returning to his Lake Geneva residence.
Patrese described his former team-mate as existing "in his own world" whilst still maintaining the ability to identify those close to him.
"He recognises people around him, familiar faces," the Italian explained.
Recent reports have confirmed that Schumacher is no longer confined to his bed, with Patrese noting he had heard the German could now sit upright, observe his surroundings, and communicate through eye contact.
However, Patrese acknowledged he has not personally visited Schumacher since the accident, stating his information came through mutual acquaintances rather than direct observation.
Michael Schumacher was an icon with Ferrari during his time in the sport | GETTYThe former driver's wife Corinna and a dedicated medical team have overseen his care throughout.
Patrese expressed deep sorrow about his friend's circumstances whilst maintaining hope for recovery.
"I hope that it can be better every day for Michael because he's a good friend of mine. And I'm so sad that he's in this situation," he said.
The Italian reflected on the family's devotion, describing their commitment as precious.
"I think in this kind of situation, it is a treasure for the person that they love. Even with the condition he is in, they like to have him and care for him and love him," Patrese added.
He recalled that approximately six years ago, there were fears Schumacher might not survive, making his continued presence a source of comfort for loved ones.
Despite sharing optimism about gradual progress, Patrese tempered expectations about meaningful change.
Former F1 driver Riccardo Patrese (left) has offered a rare insight into the German's condition
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"I'm very happy to hear that Michael is improving but from what I know of this situation nothing has changed for some years," he admitted.
Schumacher's inner circle has fiercely protected his privacy since the accident, with very few from the motorsport world granted access.
Ross Brawn, who served as Ferrari's technical director during their dominant partnership, is believed to be among the select individuals who have seen him.
The German shares the record for most world championships with Lewis Hamilton, having claimed titles in 1994, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004.