JULES Bianchi is no longer in an artificial coma but remains unconscious and in a critical condition, his family have said.

The 25-year-old Frenchman suffered a diffuse axonal injury to his brain, in an horrific crash while driving for the Banbury-based Marussia team at the Japanese Grand Prix last month.

He underwent immediate surgery upon his arrival at the Mie General Medical Centre in Yokkaichi, but after weeks of little change in his condition, Bianchi's family issued an update earlier today.

"Almost seven weeks after Jules' accident at Suzuka Circuit, and following a challenging period of neurological intensive care, we are able to announce that Jules has made an important step," a statement said.

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"Jules is no longer in the artificial coma in which he was placed shortly after the accident, however he is still unconscious.

"He is breathing unaided and his vital signs are stable, but his condition is still classified as 'critical'.

"His treatment now enters a new phase concerned with the improvement of his brain function."

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