Schumacher honored with 'Life's Work' award

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Seven-time world champion Michale Schumacher is to be the recipient of the inaugural 'Nurburgring Trophy' this week, according to Germany's Bild.

The award honors the great driver's career, which includes five victories at the Nurburgring. Schumacher remains in recovery mode at his home in Switzerland following grave head injuries sustained in a ski accident on 2013.

His exact condition or level of mobility remain unknown with conflicting reports on his health surfacing on a regular basis.

Recently, former Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo offered a glimpse of hope regarding Schumacher's future, although he did not offer much insight into his former driver's predicament.

"I'm very pleased to know that he is reacting," said the Italian.

"I'm sure that thanks to his determination, which will be crucial, he will come out from this very, very difficult situation."

Schumacher's loyal personal assistant and spokesperson Sabine Kehn will collect the award on the German icon's behalf, while former Mercedes motorsport boss also praised the 48-year-old legend.

"Nobody deserves this award more than Michael," said Haug. "This award for his life's work will give him a lot of strength on his road to recovery."

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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.