The German former grand prix driver and now Volkswagen's competition representative had a hematoma removed just over a week ago, caused by a heavy crash in an Audi R8 at the Nurburgring.

The 59-year-old was recovering in hospital in the German town Neuwied, but has now left the St. Elisabeth-Krankenhaus, according to the news agency SID.

"Finally I can check out -- man, I'm glad about that," he is quoted as saying, thanking the staff for their "excellent care".

Stuck, who contested 81 races in the 70s, said he is returning home to rest, with his next race in the German endurance championship scheduled for September 25.