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Rescue worker reveals immediate aftermath of Michael Schumacher crash

The man who led the rescue of Michael Schumacher has opened up about the moments immediately after the Formula One legend’s skiing accident.

Five years on from Schumacher’s devastating crash in the Swiss Alps, mystery still surrounds the legendary driver’s condition.

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And on the five-year anniversary, the commander of the rescue operation has spoken out about what happened.

Speaking to German news outlet FOCUS, Stephane Bozon said Schumacher was lucky to have survived.

“I still remember the emergency doctors of the helicopter had problems with the first care on the slopes because of the location of the accident,” he said.

Michael Schumacher in 2005. (Image: STR/AFP/Getty Images)
Michael Schumacher in 2005. (Image: STR/AFP/Getty Images)

“The first responders said that because the accident site was next to the slope, it was difficult for them to transport him carefully and cautiously.

“It was clear that it was very serious, otherwise we would not have used the helicopter.

“Mr Schumacher was lucky.”

Bozon was present as an investigation was carried out, and said Schumacher had been skiing off course.

“Some of our people were already at the scene in the afternoon. I was there the next day, took pictures, talked to experts,” Bozon said.

“I saw the stone Schumacher encountered with his skis and the stone he hit with his head.

Michael Schumacher in 2006. (Photo by Paul Gilham/Getty Images)
Michael Schumacher in 2006. (Photo by Paul Gilham/Getty Images)

“It had snowed so little in the days before that the stones were slightly covered with snow, but only with a very thin blanket of snow. He could not see the stone.

“But if it had snowed more, Schumacher would probably just have glided over the first stone.

“The operator of the ski resort is not at fault. Because if you go off the slopes, it is at your own risk.”

Bozon said he had no word on Schumacher’s condition, but thought of the tragedy often.

“No. I do not know how he is doing either,” he said.

“But I do think about this accident quite often. For example, when I see a slope with stones at the edge.

“That’s why I would like to hear good news about Michael Schumacher.”