Michael Schumacher was flown back to his family home in Switzerland for the birth of his first grandchild, according to reports. The F1 legend, who suffered life-changing injuries in a skiing accident in 2013, became a grandfather last month when his daughter, Gina, and her husband, Iain Bethke, welcomed a new addition to the family.

Schumacher, 56, has not been seen in public for over a decade, and the specifics of his condition are closely guarded by members of the small inner circle who are still permitted to see him. Oldest daughter Gina and her husband Iain are both part of that inner circle, and the seven-time F1 world champion was believed to be around to celebrate their new-found parenthood.

According to Bild, Schumacher made the trip from his villa in Majorca back to the family's Swiss mansion via helicopter to be present in the days leading up to the birth.

Gina announced the arrival of her daughter via a touching Instagram post, captioned: "Welcome to the world, Millie. Born on March 29th, our hearts are fuller than ever. We are beyond blessed to have you in our lives."

The report adds that Schumacher's family have faith that the new addition will give him hope as he continues to battle with the after-effects of his accident, which happened on a skiing holiday more than 11 years ago.

It was speculated last year that Schumacher was present for Gina and Iain's wedding, although his attendance was never proven. The German spent almost a year in a coma after hitting his head on a rock, despite wearing a helmet.

Since he regained consciousness, the Schumacher family, led by wife Corinna, have kept matters of the former Ferrari driver's health strictly private.

Felix Gorner, a reporter for German broadcaster RTL who is believed to have a close relationship with the Schumachers, said in March: "The situation is very sad. He needs constant care and is completely dependent on his caregivers.

"He can no longer express himself verbally. Currently, there's a maximum of 20 people who can approach Michael. 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."

Schumacher won five F1 world titles in a row between 2000 and 2004, and he was once the highest-paid sportsperson on the planet. He came out of retirement in 2010 to drive for Mercedes, before retiring for the second and final time in 2012.