Zanardi making 'significant clinical improvements' says hospital

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Alex Zanardi is finally enjoying "significant clinical improvements" according to a statement from Milan's San Raffaele Hospital.

Two months after the life-threatening hand bike accident suffered by Zanardi, the former F1 driver and gold medal Paralympic winner is making progress.

A statement from the San Raffaele Hospital announced: "After a period during which he was subjected to intensive care following hospitalisation on 24 July, the patient responded with significant clinical improvements.

©BMWMotorsport

"For this reason, he is currently assisted and treated with semi-intensive care at the Neuroreanimation Unit, directed by Professor Luigi Beretta."

Zanardi was placed in a medically induced coma by his doctors at Siena's Santa Maria alle Scotta hospital after his hand bike crash back in June and underwent three separate neurological surgeries.

Although doctors referenced sever head and facial injuries, the full extent of the two-time CART champion are not known, nor have doctors offered a timeline or prognosis on his recovery.

Today's news nevertheless offers hope that there is light at the end of Zanardi's tunnel.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.