The chief surgeon in the ward that looked after Zanardi told Italian news agency ANSA his condition has been stabilised and the panels and machines repaired so he can continue his recovery with his family.

The 55-year-old Italian spent last Christmas at his home near Padua, where he continued his treatment until the fire.

Zanardi suffered serious head injuries in a road accident while he was on his handbike near Siena on June 19 2020.

In January 2021, surgeons reported that Zanardi had "communicated with his family".

Zanardi’s wife, Daniela Manni told La Stampa: "He does things, but not always.

"There have been steps forward, and there have been steps backwards.

"His is a very long journey."

Zanardi raced in F1 from 1991 to 1994 and again in 1999, placing sixth in the 1993 Brazilian Grand Prix - his best result.

In 2001, while competing in cart racing, he suffered life-changing injuries and lost both legs in a crash.

Following the accident, Zanardi was fitted with two prosthetic limbs and after competing at the World Touring Car Championship turned to Para cycling.

He has since won six Paralympic medals in total - four gold and two silver.

Zanardi won road time trial golds at London 2012 and Rio 2016, as well as mixed team relay gold in Brazil and a road race gold in 2012.