Earlier this week, Johnny Herbert expressed 'hope' for Michael Schumacher after the F1 icon recently signed a special helmet for the family of Sir Jackie Stewart.
Stewart's helmet is being sold to raise money for dementia and is special because it bears the signatures of every living world champion.
Schumacher, with the assistance of wife Corinna, penned his initials 'MS' on the headpiece in question.
And Herbert, speaking to FastSlots, suggested that it could be a 'sign' that the former Ferrari and Benneton driver is 'on the mend'.
Michael Schumacher's life today remains a mystery
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“It’s wonderful news that Michael Schumacher signed Jackie Stewart's helmet,” he told FastSlots.
“It was a wonderful moment. We haven't seen something emotional like this in years, and hopefully it's a sign.
"Hopefully, Michael is on the mend. It's been a long, horrible journey for the family, and maybe we'll hopefully see him in the F1 paddock soon."
Of course, the whole world wants to see Schumacher again. He hasn't been seen in public since a tragic skiing accident in December 2013 left him with awful, life-changing injuries.
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Unfortunately, however, the chances of that happening appear remote.
Not much is known about Schumacher these days. Corinna, and the family, have always preferred to keep details about his condition to an absolute mininum.
Speaking in 2021, she explained her stance by saying: "'Private is private', as he always said.
"It's very important to me that he can continue to enjoy his private life as much as possible.
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Michael Schumacher and Johnny Herbert used to be team-mates
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"Michael always protected us, and now we are protecting Michael."
And before Herbert's comments, there was a devastating update on Schumacher.
Felix Gorner, a reporter for German broadcaster RTL, is close with the family and said in March that Schumacher was, sadly, unable to talk.
He said: "The situation is very sad.
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"He needs constant care and is completely dependent on his caregivers. And he can no longer express himself verbally."
Elaborating further, Gorner said that Schumacher had an inner circle consisting of around 20 people who have access to the F1 legend.
"Currently, there's a maximum of 20 people who can approach Michael," he added.
"And, in my opinion, it's the right strategy. Because the family is acting in Michael's best interests. They've always strictly protected his privacy, and that hasn't changed."
Michael Schumacher has not been seen in public since his skiing crash in 2013PAIn 2023, another of Schumacher's close friends commented on his condition.
Roger Benoit, who used to smoke cigars with the German star, stated that he was a 'case without hope'.
The world has long prayed for a miracle when it comes to Schumacher and Herbert's comments will get some people excited.
The reality is, however, that Schumacher will likely never appear in public again.
