Andor Grosz, deputy head of the AEK hospital in Budapest, told reporters early on Monday evening that Massa's condition had improved considerably.

'In the past 24 hours there have been significant changes, and his condition remains stable. He is effectively capable of communicating and we have taken him off the respirator. He remains extremely drowsy, but has no fever and can move his limbs. There is no need for further surgery and his condition is expected to further improve,' Grosz said.

A spokesperson for Massa's family said at the same time that the driver had spoken to family members when he awoke, first asking what had happened to him.

The family scotched reports that they planned to transfer Massa to Paris for further treatment, and was satisfied with the treatment he has received in Budapest, the local news agency MTI reported.

Ferrari driver Massa suffered a skull fracture in a freak accident Saturday when a spring from fellow Brazilian Rubens Barrichello's Brawn GP car broke loose and struck him on the helmet during a Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying session at Hungaroring.