Fausto Gresini 'fully conscious, condition improving'

More positive news has emerged from the intensive care unit of the Maggiore Carlo Alberto Pizzardi hospital in Bologna, where MotoGP team boss Fausto Gresini is being treated for severe respiratory problems after contracting Covid in late December.

Having previously been woken from a pharmaceutical coma, then having his level of sedation moderated further, the former 125cc world champion is now described by his team as 'fully conscious and aware'.

That also allowed him to take part in his daughter's birthday via a video call and then receive a visit from his wife for the first time since December 27. For now, the 59-year-old Italian continues to breathe with the aid of a mechanical ventilator.

“Fausto Gresini's general clinical conditions - albeit still fragile – are improving," confirmed Doctor Nicola Cilloni, who has been providing frequent medical updates on the MotoGP team manager.

"He is awake and very cooperative; he is still aided by the breathing machine but has begun with physiotherapy already.

"Today's visit by his wife Nadia, whom he welcomed with great emotion, has surely strengthened his already well-known great determination.”

Gresini, the only MotoGP team boss known to have contracted Covid, was diagnosed just before Christmas.

After intitally self-isolating at home, Gresini's deteriorating condition required admission to hospital in Imola on December 27, then a move to the specialist Covid ward in Bologna on December 30.