German chancellor joins long list of well-wishers for 'schumi'

Chancellor Angela Merkel joined sports legends and millions of Germans on Monday in expressing shock at Formula One great Michael Schumacher's skiing accident, as his family thanked well-wishers for their support.

In Schumacher's home town of Kerpen, North Rhine-Westphalia, locals were also wishing for a quick recovery for the daredevil racing driver who first honed his skills on his father's local go-kart track as a youth.

"He was always searching for risk and speed," said mayor Marlies Sieburg, adding that "of course he is a fighter, maybe that will help him. His fan club and many residents are concerned not only for the Formula One champion but also for the human being, the man."