Photos of ailing Schumacher under investigation

Photos of Michael Schumacher lying in bed at his home in Switzerland have emerged for the first time since the seven-time world champion's dramatic 2013 skiing accident.

The shots are reportedly being shopped around to media outlets for £1 million although it's doubtful anyone would succumb to publishing pictures of the ailing Formula 1 legend and risk massive litigation.

It is unknown who took the pictures or how they were smuggled out of the highly guarded Schumacher compound, and prosecutors in Offenburg, Germany have initiated an investigation into the matter.

The 47-year-old driver sustained severe head injuries in a skiing accident in France, on December 29 2013 and has remained in the care of private doctors and nurses in the confines of his home since September 2014.

Over the weekend, Schumacher's manager Sabine Kehm reminded the media that the former driver's health would remain a private matter "to protect his intimate sphere".

She also announced the launch of the "Keep Fighting" initiative destined to motivate and inspire individuals hit by difficult times.

Schumacher's family have offered no comment on the reports of the stolen photos.

Andrew Green: Force India's smooth operator

Romain Grosjean column: 2016 showed exciting Haas potential

TECHNICAL: Under the skin of the Williams FW38

Jorge Lorenzo: When a two-wheel champion tests a Mercedes

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.