Michael Schumacher said he enjoyed his return to racing at the Bahrain Grand Prix, although the German suggested the strategies this year will not make for great racing.
Schumacher finished the race in sixth position, over 40 seconds behind winner Fernando Alonso, after a quiet event in which he was unable to make progress after the start.
With no refuelling allowed, Schumacher believes the race strategies don't allow for much variation, although he said his race had been 'good fun'.
"It's the start and then after it is just sort of go your pace and not do mistakes," Schumacher told the BBC.
"Overtaking is basically impossible, other than if somebody makes a mistake - Lewis had a little one so Nico was able to pass him, but got back past at the pitstop. That's about it.
"That's the action we are going to have with unfortunately this kind of environment of race strategy.
"But, anyway, it was good fun. Especially the beginning and now we are going to work forward in order to catch up what is in front of us."
The seven-time champion admitted he struggled with his tyres after so many laps, but said that was just part of getting back into the groove after three years without racing.
"Well, there is the new rules with the tyres that everybody has to cope with," Schumacher added.
"I struggled a little bit with those, I have to say, but after three years of not being there I guess it is natural that you have to find your way in to new bits and pieces and the team and myself are going to work on that."
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Showing posts with label Schumacher. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Schumacher. Show all posts
Monday, 15 March 2010
Tuesday, 9 March 2010
Schumacher eager to kick off 2010 fight
Michael Schumacher says he is raring to go and fully prepared for the challenges of his Formula 1 comeback in Bahrain this weekend - even though he is not expecting a strong start to his campaign.
The seven-time champion's efforts will be one of the main focuses at the season opener at Sakhir, even though both he and his German car manufacturer team does not believe it will hit peak form until much later in the year.
And although pessimistic about his chances for early success, Schumacher is adamant that Mercedes GP has what it takes to pull through and triumph in the end.
When asked in a preview interview posted on his official website if he was ready for a long hard title fight, Schumacher said: "Absolutely, yes. This is what I am here for, and I am confident we can play a role in this fight.
"If we win it at the end will be a different question, as always in sports. But our entire team is extremely motivated, as am I. The guys have won both titles last year, and now, with Mercedes power on board, they want to repeat this success.
"We all want to win. The season will be long and hard, no doubt about that, but I love this fight - it is because of this fight that I came back to Formula 1."
The Mercedes GP W01 has not appeared to be the quickest car in pre-season testing, although its ultimate form remains unclear with the team only due to fit its definitive 2010 diffuser package at Bahrain this weekend.
That leap forward could be enough to haul it right to the front of the grid – and Schumacher is hopeful that the extra development time the team has gained from introducing its parts so late should pay off.
"The car has not been completely at the level of other teams' cars at the end of the tests, true, but the amount of fuel was massively influencing this impression," he explained. "It seems we were driving more fuel than others most of the time and therefore we look quite good I would say. But then it is hard to judge who [has] played all his cards yet.
"Our car also has not been at the final configuration - something we had deliberately wanted. We wanted to use the two weeks development time between the last test and the race in Bahrain."
And although Schumacher is well aware that only more success will be good enough for his return to F1, he does not think the pressure on him to succeed is too high.
"I said it quite clear from the beginning: we do not have to - and probably will not - be in the position to win right from the start," he explained. "It is important to be close and then use the long season to be at the top at the end. It is not the start which is important; it is the finish."
The seven-time champion's efforts will be one of the main focuses at the season opener at Sakhir, even though both he and his German car manufacturer team does not believe it will hit peak form until much later in the year.
And although pessimistic about his chances for early success, Schumacher is adamant that Mercedes GP has what it takes to pull through and triumph in the end.
When asked in a preview interview posted on his official website if he was ready for a long hard title fight, Schumacher said: "Absolutely, yes. This is what I am here for, and I am confident we can play a role in this fight.
"If we win it at the end will be a different question, as always in sports. But our entire team is extremely motivated, as am I. The guys have won both titles last year, and now, with Mercedes power on board, they want to repeat this success.
"We all want to win. The season will be long and hard, no doubt about that, but I love this fight - it is because of this fight that I came back to Formula 1."
The Mercedes GP W01 has not appeared to be the quickest car in pre-season testing, although its ultimate form remains unclear with the team only due to fit its definitive 2010 diffuser package at Bahrain this weekend.
That leap forward could be enough to haul it right to the front of the grid – and Schumacher is hopeful that the extra development time the team has gained from introducing its parts so late should pay off.
"The car has not been completely at the level of other teams' cars at the end of the tests, true, but the amount of fuel was massively influencing this impression," he explained. "It seems we were driving more fuel than others most of the time and therefore we look quite good I would say. But then it is hard to judge who [has] played all his cards yet.
"Our car also has not been at the final configuration - something we had deliberately wanted. We wanted to use the two weeks development time between the last test and the race in Bahrain."
And although Schumacher is well aware that only more success will be good enough for his return to F1, he does not think the pressure on him to succeed is too high.
"I said it quite clear from the beginning: we do not have to - and probably will not - be in the position to win right from the start," he explained. "It is important to be close and then use the long season to be at the top at the end. It is not the start which is important; it is the finish."
Friday, 15 January 2010
MICHAEL SCHUMACHER CONCLUDES GP2 TEST
Michael Schumacher concluded his three-day GP2 development test today in Jerez. Clear blue skies, strong winds and a much drier track meant the final day of the test was the best of the week with Michael able to run on slick tyres for the majority of the day.
Michael completed 130 laps in total and covered 576kms which brings the total amount of distance covered to 1151kms in three days. This morning, he ran for 23 laps in wet tyres before switching to slicks for the rest of the day. Today’s session included three long runs of 20 laps each and Michael set his best laptime of the day on his last run with a 1:24.621.
Michael said: “I could really drive a lot on this last day of testing and it worked out perfectly. I am very happy with the way testing went here: we worked well, times and consistency were well, we could do everything we had scheduled to do. I feel fit and I felt comfortable immediately back in the car - hey, let’s go for it!”
GP2 Series organiser Bruno Michel said: “This has been a fantastic opportunity for the GP2 Series and everyone involved in the competition. Michael’s analysis and feedback was fantastic and the GP2 technical staff who has been working with him this week is positive that what has been learned from this development test will provide us with an even better car in 2011. We are very happy that Michael chose our car to get his sensations back at the wheel of a high-performance machine and that he stated that it was the closest thing to a current Formula 1 car. He made a few comments comparing the GP2 and the F1 cars notably regarding their handling. We are now looking forward the second round of the GP2 Asia Series next month in Abu Dhabi and we would like to wish Michael all the best for his return to Formula One.”
Michael completed 130 laps in total and covered 576kms which brings the total amount of distance covered to 1151kms in three days. This morning, he ran for 23 laps in wet tyres before switching to slicks for the rest of the day. Today’s session included three long runs of 20 laps each and Michael set his best laptime of the day on his last run with a 1:24.621.
Michael said: “I could really drive a lot on this last day of testing and it worked out perfectly. I am very happy with the way testing went here: we worked well, times and consistency were well, we could do everything we had scheduled to do. I feel fit and I felt comfortable immediately back in the car - hey, let’s go for it!”
GP2 Series organiser Bruno Michel said: “This has been a fantastic opportunity for the GP2 Series and everyone involved in the competition. Michael’s analysis and feedback was fantastic and the GP2 technical staff who has been working with him this week is positive that what has been learned from this development test will provide us with an even better car in 2011. We are very happy that Michael chose our car to get his sensations back at the wheel of a high-performance machine and that he stated that it was the closest thing to a current Formula 1 car. He made a few comments comparing the GP2 and the F1 cars notably regarding their handling. We are now looking forward the second round of the GP2 Asia Series next month in Abu Dhabi and we would like to wish Michael all the best for his return to Formula One.”
Wednesday, 13 January 2010
Michael drives GP2 in Jerez
"All my senses were on full alert - this alone was worth it"
"The day today was good especially because after a long time I could drive again in a car that came almost close to a current Formula 1. Despite the weather not being what we all would have liked all my senses were nevertheless on full alert - this alone was worth it.
Unfortunately it was always just too wet to go out with Slicks. I tried them twice but had to go back to the box immediately. But still I gain a lot from being here because even if you cannot reach F1-level in terms of g-forces you are still able to practise the communication with the engineers and the sensibility on the limit. Fortunately it was back very soon.
I felt comfortable out on the track from the very beginning, and naturally I'd like to thank our Team and the GP2 series very much for the opportunity to drive."
"The day today was good especially because after a long time I could drive again in a car that came almost close to a current Formula 1. Despite the weather not being what we all would have liked all my senses were nevertheless on full alert - this alone was worth it.
Unfortunately it was always just too wet to go out with Slicks. I tried them twice but had to go back to the box immediately. But still I gain a lot from being here because even if you cannot reach F1-level in terms of g-forces you are still able to practise the communication with the engineers and the sensibility on the limit. Fortunately it was back very soon.
I felt comfortable out on the track from the very beginning, and naturally I'd like to thank our Team and the GP2 series very much for the opportunity to drive."
Schumacher in GP2
Michael Schumacher returned to the cockpit today at the wheel of the GP2 Series development car at the Jerez circuit in Spain for a three-day test programme which aims at defining technical solutions for the Series’ next generation car which will be introduced in the 2011 season.
In difficult conditions due to heavy rain and wind, the Mercedes GP driver completed 52 laps today. Although the morning session started dry and under grey skies, the rain soon came and upset the programme. The weather conditions worsened in the afternoon and the session had to stop earlier than scheduled.
Michael Schumacher said: “The day was good especially because after a long time, I could drive again in a car that came almost close to a current Formula 1 car. Despite the weather not being what we all would have liked, all my senses were nevertheless on full alert and this alone was worth it. I felt comfortable out on the track from the very beginning, and naturally Id like to thank our team and the GP2 series very much for the opportunity to drive.”
GP2 Series Technical director Didier Perrin said: “It is unfortunate that the weather conditions were far from optimal today. Still, Michael could get a good first taste of our car and has already managed to analyse the performance and behaviour of current car. Tomorrow, we hope for better weather and a dryer track which should allow us to move along with our programme and start working together on set up solutions for 2011.”
In difficult conditions due to heavy rain and wind, the Mercedes GP driver completed 52 laps today. Although the morning session started dry and under grey skies, the rain soon came and upset the programme. The weather conditions worsened in the afternoon and the session had to stop earlier than scheduled.
Michael Schumacher said: “The day was good especially because after a long time, I could drive again in a car that came almost close to a current Formula 1 car. Despite the weather not being what we all would have liked, all my senses were nevertheless on full alert and this alone was worth it. I felt comfortable out on the track from the very beginning, and naturally Id like to thank our team and the GP2 series very much for the opportunity to drive.”
GP2 Series Technical director Didier Perrin said: “It is unfortunate that the weather conditions were far from optimal today. Still, Michael could get a good first taste of our car and has already managed to analyse the performance and behaviour of current car. Tomorrow, we hope for better weather and a dryer track which should allow us to move along with our programme and start working together on set up solutions for 2011.”
Monday, 11 January 2010
MICHAEL SCHUMACHER TO TAKE PART IN GP2 SERIES DEVELOPMENT TEST IN JEREZ
In preparation for his much-awaited return to Formula One next season with MERCEDES GP PETRONAS, Michael Schumacher will take part in a three-day GP2 Series test session in Jerez, Spain this week.
Following the approval of the FIA, the GP2 Series and the Formula One Testing Committee, Michael will drive the GP2 development car for three days from Tuesday 12 January to Thursday 14 January.
Michael’s desire to drive a high-performance competition vehicle as part of his preparations has found a match in the objectives of the GP2 Series to develop the 2011/2013 car. As GP2 are currently defining the technical features of the Series’ third generation car which will debut in Spring 2011, the Series organisers saw a fantastic opportunity to benefit from Michael’s experience and his legendary technical abilities.
One of the main goals of the three-day test will be to evaluate numerous suspension configurations in order to define several new set-up solutions which will provide more flexibility to GP2 drivers and engineers during the race weekends. Alongside that programme, the test will see the evaluation and validation of updated components, including a new clutch, to be introduced later this year.
GP2 Organiser Bruno Michel said: “Today’s test marks a milestone for the GP2 Series. It is an honour and a privilege for us to have seven-time Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher help us to develop our car. The goal of the GP2 Series is to prepare young drivers for Formula One. This test will prove to be very important for the future of our GP2 drivers and will be a confirmation of the high-standards and competitiveness of our Series. Michael’s input and advice will be invaluable. I am confident that his knowledge and unparalleled driving skills will help us to develop a great car for next season.”
Following the approval of the FIA, the GP2 Series and the Formula One Testing Committee, Michael will drive the GP2 development car for three days from Tuesday 12 January to Thursday 14 January.
Michael’s desire to drive a high-performance competition vehicle as part of his preparations has found a match in the objectives of the GP2 Series to develop the 2011/2013 car. As GP2 are currently defining the technical features of the Series’ third generation car which will debut in Spring 2011, the Series organisers saw a fantastic opportunity to benefit from Michael’s experience and his legendary technical abilities.
One of the main goals of the three-day test will be to evaluate numerous suspension configurations in order to define several new set-up solutions which will provide more flexibility to GP2 drivers and engineers during the race weekends. Alongside that programme, the test will see the evaluation and validation of updated components, including a new clutch, to be introduced later this year.
GP2 Organiser Bruno Michel said: “Today’s test marks a milestone for the GP2 Series. It is an honour and a privilege for us to have seven-time Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher help us to develop our car. The goal of the GP2 Series is to prepare young drivers for Formula One. This test will prove to be very important for the future of our GP2 drivers and will be a confirmation of the high-standards and competitiveness of our Series. Michael’s input and advice will be invaluable. I am confident that his knowledge and unparalleled driving skills will help us to develop a great car for next season.”
Thursday, 31 December 2009
Ferrari: Schumacher return great for F1
Stefano Domenicali says Ferrari was very disappointed to hear the news of Michael Schumacher's move to Mercedes GP, but the team boss reckons the German's comeback is great news for Formula 1.
Schumacher, who will turn 41 next month, will make a sensational return to the sport after having retired for the first time at the end of the 2006 season.
The German will join Mercedes Grand Prix after having signed a three-year deal that will see his 14-year relationship with Ferrari come to an end.
Domenicali admitted it was not easy to accept the news.
"A marriage is not based on formal aspects," Domenicali told La Stampa newspaper in an interview. "In his head he had the desire and he wanted to tackle a new sporting challenge, and Ferrari had no openings.
"We were very disappointed, needless to deny it, but we have to move on."
The Italian, however, is convinced that Schumacher's return is a huge boost for Formula 1.
"His return is great news for Formula 1: he will increase the interest in the championship, attract new audiences and improve the show," he added.
The Ferrari boss also reckons the Italian fans will not forget everything Schumacher achieved with the Maranello team come next year's Italian Grand Prix.
"I was surprised to receive so many letter from fans who were 'disappointed', to put it mildly. The Italian Grand Prix is far away: I'm sure that Ferrari fans will be grateful. History cannot be erased," Domenicali said.
And he insisted Ferrari has been boosted by the arrival of Fernando Alonso from next year.
"He was here last time in mid-December. Since then he calls every day to find out about the car's performance in the simulations. His arrival has been a boost for the boys."
Schumacher, who will turn 41 next month, will make a sensational return to the sport after having retired for the first time at the end of the 2006 season.
The German will join Mercedes Grand Prix after having signed a three-year deal that will see his 14-year relationship with Ferrari come to an end.
Domenicali admitted it was not easy to accept the news.
"A marriage is not based on formal aspects," Domenicali told La Stampa newspaper in an interview. "In his head he had the desire and he wanted to tackle a new sporting challenge, and Ferrari had no openings.
"We were very disappointed, needless to deny it, but we have to move on."
The Italian, however, is convinced that Schumacher's return is a huge boost for Formula 1.
"His return is great news for Formula 1: he will increase the interest in the championship, attract new audiences and improve the show," he added.
The Ferrari boss also reckons the Italian fans will not forget everything Schumacher achieved with the Maranello team come next year's Italian Grand Prix.
"I was surprised to receive so many letter from fans who were 'disappointed', to put it mildly. The Italian Grand Prix is far away: I'm sure that Ferrari fans will be grateful. History cannot be erased," Domenicali said.
And he insisted Ferrari has been boosted by the arrival of Fernando Alonso from next year.
"He was here last time in mid-December. Since then he calls every day to find out about the car's performance in the simulations. His arrival has been a boost for the boys."
Wednesday, 30 December 2009
Piero Ferrari: Schumacher not disloyal
Piero Ferrari has dismissed suggestions that Michael Schumacher is betraying Ferrari by making a Formula 1 comeback with Mercedes.
The son of company founder Enzo Ferrari believes the Mercedes move was a pragmatic one as Ferrari had no spare seats, rather than a snub to the team Schumacher had been with since 1996.
"It's true that we were a bit disappointed, because Michael had become our symbol," Ferrari told Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I wouldn't use that expression [betrayal], even though obviously we would have preferred him to stay with us. But he wanted to race and the conditions weren't there for him to do it once again with Ferrari."
Ferrari is sure that Schumacher is still quick enough to make a successful comeback even though he is now in his forties.
"His competitiveness will depend on the car," said Ferrari. "Another great driver, Mario Andretti, had carried on racing until he was over 50. Schumi was and remains a phenomenon. Drivers like him come only once every ten years."
He insisted that Ferrari had no reason to consider moving either of its 2010 signings Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa aside to accommodate Schumacher.
"No, because I never believe in comebacks in sport, and I mean coaches and footballers who go back to a team where they had coached or played before. Time goes on," he said.
"And besides, we have hired Alonso who didn't become world champion by chance, and in fact he has already challenged and beaten Michael before. And then we have Massa, who has matured next to Michael himself.
"I'm convinced that, if we are able to build a good car - the 2009 one wasn't very good - we'll get some satisfaction. In other words, we won't lose races and the title because of the drivers."
Ferrari believes his legendary father would also have accepted Schumacher's decision.
"I'll take a step back in time: I was very close to Lorenzo Bandini and I suffered greatly when he died in Monte Carlo in 1967," said Ferrari.
"Right then, my father gave me some advice that was in line with his policy: 'You must never get too affectionate with racing drivers, because it either ends this way or they go race somewhere else. They are employees, even if very important ones.'
The son of company founder Enzo Ferrari believes the Mercedes move was a pragmatic one as Ferrari had no spare seats, rather than a snub to the team Schumacher had been with since 1996.
"It's true that we were a bit disappointed, because Michael had become our symbol," Ferrari told Gazzetta dello Sport.
"I wouldn't use that expression [betrayal], even though obviously we would have preferred him to stay with us. But he wanted to race and the conditions weren't there for him to do it once again with Ferrari."
Ferrari is sure that Schumacher is still quick enough to make a successful comeback even though he is now in his forties.
"His competitiveness will depend on the car," said Ferrari. "Another great driver, Mario Andretti, had carried on racing until he was over 50. Schumi was and remains a phenomenon. Drivers like him come only once every ten years."
He insisted that Ferrari had no reason to consider moving either of its 2010 signings Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa aside to accommodate Schumacher.
"No, because I never believe in comebacks in sport, and I mean coaches and footballers who go back to a team where they had coached or played before. Time goes on," he said.
"And besides, we have hired Alonso who didn't become world champion by chance, and in fact he has already challenged and beaten Michael before. And then we have Massa, who has matured next to Michael himself.
"I'm convinced that, if we are able to build a good car - the 2009 one wasn't very good - we'll get some satisfaction. In other words, we won't lose races and the title because of the drivers."
Ferrari believes his legendary father would also have accepted Schumacher's decision.
"I'll take a step back in time: I was very close to Lorenzo Bandini and I suffered greatly when he died in Monte Carlo in 1967," said Ferrari.
"Right then, my father gave me some advice that was in line with his policy: 'You must never get too affectionate with racing drivers, because it either ends this way or they go race somewhere else. They are employees, even if very important ones.'
Sunday, 27 December 2009
Schumacher pays tribute to Ferrari fans
Michael Schumacher says that Ferrari will always have a place in his heart, following his 14 years with the marque before joining Mercedes GP.
In an open letter to Ferrari fans distributed through the Italian media, Schumacher pays tribute to the prancing horse and its followers and says he hopes they will carry on supporting him in future.
"For 14 years I was a part of Ferrari and for 14 years Ferrari was a part of me," he said. "A sizeable chunk of Ferrari will always stay in my heart. I will always think of the warmth, the strength and the dedication I received for so many years from Italian Ferrari fans.
"I have felt welcomed by you, and I have tried to give you joy and passion when I fought on the tracks and rejoiced with you after victories."
Schumacher says he has learned from Ferrari and expects the team to have a strong season in 2010.
"I have found many friends and learned a lot in the years I spent at Ferrari," wrote Schumacher. "I carefully observed the way to face things and have often underlined this attitude in Germany: no moaning but rather trying to see the beauty and the goodness in what's unavoidable, and rejoicing.
"Now a new chapter begins for me. I will race on the track against Ferrari with the utmost respect. I'm convinced these will be hard battles. Indeed, I'm certain Ferrari will be able to show its historical strength because I know what these guys are able to do.
"I'd like to thank everyone who has supported me. I'd be happy if, besides the two Ferrari drivers, you'd carry on giving me a bit of your unlimited liking."
In an open letter to Ferrari fans distributed through the Italian media, Schumacher pays tribute to the prancing horse and its followers and says he hopes they will carry on supporting him in future.
"For 14 years I was a part of Ferrari and for 14 years Ferrari was a part of me," he said. "A sizeable chunk of Ferrari will always stay in my heart. I will always think of the warmth, the strength and the dedication I received for so many years from Italian Ferrari fans.
"I have felt welcomed by you, and I have tried to give you joy and passion when I fought on the tracks and rejoiced with you after victories."
Schumacher says he has learned from Ferrari and expects the team to have a strong season in 2010.
"I have found many friends and learned a lot in the years I spent at Ferrari," wrote Schumacher. "I carefully observed the way to face things and have often underlined this attitude in Germany: no moaning but rather trying to see the beauty and the goodness in what's unavoidable, and rejoicing.
"Now a new chapter begins for me. I will race on the track against Ferrari with the utmost respect. I'm convinced these will be hard battles. Indeed, I'm certain Ferrari will be able to show its historical strength because I know what these guys are able to do.
"I'd like to thank everyone who has supported me. I'd be happy if, besides the two Ferrari drivers, you'd carry on giving me a bit of your unlimited liking."
Wednesday, 23 December 2009
Q and A with Michael Schumacher
After three years away from the Formula 1 cockpit, Michael Schumacher has opted to throw himself back into the hotbed of competition by signing for reigning champions Mercedes GP.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday immediately after his comeback was confirmed, Schumacher spoke about the excitement he feels to be back in F1, why his neck will not be a problem and why his only thought is on winning another world championship.
Q. What has motivated you to come back?
Michael Schumacher: The motivation I think is pretty straightforward - the call I got from Ross [Brawn] at the end of November concerning the chance in my hand to go racing. Having this phone call from him, and the circumstances of Mercedes-Benz being involved as the owner, I felt great.
I never left the race track. I was tired of F1 by the end of 2006...but after three years of absence I have been getting back all the energy that I am feeling right now. I played around with motorbikes, and I feel ready for some serious stuff now.
Q. What is the situation with your neck?
MS: It is obviously a topic where I understand the question, and I want to understand myself. Before I gave the final okay, I made sure that I worked it out myself to be sure myself. And I can say 100 percent that the neck is no further an issue.
Unfortunately it was too close to the accident in the summer when I tried for Ferrari, but time now is enough for it have healed completely. And everything I've done, I can do. I have used machines that I used to use with no problem.
Q. Do you feel that you have the same speed as before, and that single-minded purpose to race wheel-to-wheel with the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.
MS: I am absolutely confident on this one...when I got into a kart for the first time after my [motorcycle] crash I was straight away on the pace. I have to prove it in real terms, but going wheel-to-wheel with these guys will be thrilling and exciting. It is something I look for - and the great thing is to get support from the outside. They have no doubt about my ability.
Q. What does it mean for you to leave Ferrari and join Mercedes-Benz?
MS: This has not been an easy step, honestly. I have lots of friends at Ferrari after the 14 years that I have been working there, and have good memories of my Ferrari days.
I think the only reason I sort of seriously thought about my return was because of old friends who asked me. We also had a situation where Mercedes-Benz gave me the chance to enter F1 and over the years it was never possible [to race for them]. Finally now a combination of Ross and Mercedes makes it possible to work together and I am happy to be able to give something to Mercedes after the early days.
Q. You have a phenomenal reputation after all your success in F1. Do you not worry it will be put on the line next year, and people will not judge you on what you did before?
MS: I hope they will judge me on what we have done before - and I am going into this exercise with the same opinion. It [Mercedes GP} is a team that has won both championships this year - and we have Mercedes as a strong partner. Our aim can only be to fight for the championship. There will be strong competition, as we have seen, but I am thrilled to be back into this one.
Q. Did you ask your family about your F1 plans - did you consult your wife and kids?
MS: Obviously. It is natural that you have to sort out the personal situation before you enter this one. Everyone was thrilled - and the wife has always been keen to see everyone happy. She didn't really argue at all - she wanted to have fun.
Q. How long will you drive for Mercedes-Benz?
MS: We are talking about a three-year deal. It is not a one-off thing. We are obviously looking for continuation.
Q. What have been the factors in you deciding to make an F1 comeback now? In the past you have said you did not have much interesting in returning.
MS: I was out of energy by the end of 2006. I needed this time off. I wasn’t thinking about coming back, and I could not have imagined what would happen. I played around in many areas and had a lot of fun. But due to the special combination [now], I thought why not?
Q. How would you rate your chances of being champion again - and who are your biggest rivals?
MS: Normally you have to mention the four teams that fought for the top positions this year. They will be the ones fighting again next year. It will be a tight fight - but people have trust in me.
Q. Do you think the competition in F1 is tougher now than it was three years ago?
MS: It is probably more tight. But tougher? No, why? There have always been tough drivers.
Q. Have you been in the Brawn GP simulator yet, and what are you expecting from the new generation of F1 cars?
MS: No, I have not been in the simulator, other than my personal one - the personal training machine that I have. The cars will be slightly different, but I have been in so many different characters of cars over the years, and a strong part of myself is that I am able to adapt to whatever the circumstances are.
Q. If there had been no space at Mercedes GP for next year, was there another option. Did McLaren offer you anything?
MS: I think there would have been no other teams seriously considered, no.
Q. If you do come back and win races and the title, do you think that will be your greatest achievement?
MS: It will be certainly a unique experience and a unique achievement. So let’s get behind the wheel first and talk later.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday immediately after his comeback was confirmed, Schumacher spoke about the excitement he feels to be back in F1, why his neck will not be a problem and why his only thought is on winning another world championship.
Q. What has motivated you to come back?
Michael Schumacher: The motivation I think is pretty straightforward - the call I got from Ross [Brawn] at the end of November concerning the chance in my hand to go racing. Having this phone call from him, and the circumstances of Mercedes-Benz being involved as the owner, I felt great.
I never left the race track. I was tired of F1 by the end of 2006...but after three years of absence I have been getting back all the energy that I am feeling right now. I played around with motorbikes, and I feel ready for some serious stuff now.
Q. What is the situation with your neck?
MS: It is obviously a topic where I understand the question, and I want to understand myself. Before I gave the final okay, I made sure that I worked it out myself to be sure myself. And I can say 100 percent that the neck is no further an issue.
Unfortunately it was too close to the accident in the summer when I tried for Ferrari, but time now is enough for it have healed completely. And everything I've done, I can do. I have used machines that I used to use with no problem.
Q. Do you feel that you have the same speed as before, and that single-minded purpose to race wheel-to-wheel with the likes of Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.
MS: I am absolutely confident on this one...when I got into a kart for the first time after my [motorcycle] crash I was straight away on the pace. I have to prove it in real terms, but going wheel-to-wheel with these guys will be thrilling and exciting. It is something I look for - and the great thing is to get support from the outside. They have no doubt about my ability.
Q. What does it mean for you to leave Ferrari and join Mercedes-Benz?
MS: This has not been an easy step, honestly. I have lots of friends at Ferrari after the 14 years that I have been working there, and have good memories of my Ferrari days.
I think the only reason I sort of seriously thought about my return was because of old friends who asked me. We also had a situation where Mercedes-Benz gave me the chance to enter F1 and over the years it was never possible [to race for them]. Finally now a combination of Ross and Mercedes makes it possible to work together and I am happy to be able to give something to Mercedes after the early days.
Q. You have a phenomenal reputation after all your success in F1. Do you not worry it will be put on the line next year, and people will not judge you on what you did before?
MS: I hope they will judge me on what we have done before - and I am going into this exercise with the same opinion. It [Mercedes GP} is a team that has won both championships this year - and we have Mercedes as a strong partner. Our aim can only be to fight for the championship. There will be strong competition, as we have seen, but I am thrilled to be back into this one.
Q. Did you ask your family about your F1 plans - did you consult your wife and kids?
MS: Obviously. It is natural that you have to sort out the personal situation before you enter this one. Everyone was thrilled - and the wife has always been keen to see everyone happy. She didn't really argue at all - she wanted to have fun.
Q. How long will you drive for Mercedes-Benz?
MS: We are talking about a three-year deal. It is not a one-off thing. We are obviously looking for continuation.
Q. What have been the factors in you deciding to make an F1 comeback now? In the past you have said you did not have much interesting in returning.
MS: I was out of energy by the end of 2006. I needed this time off. I wasn’t thinking about coming back, and I could not have imagined what would happen. I played around in many areas and had a lot of fun. But due to the special combination [now], I thought why not?
Q. How would you rate your chances of being champion again - and who are your biggest rivals?
MS: Normally you have to mention the four teams that fought for the top positions this year. They will be the ones fighting again next year. It will be a tight fight - but people have trust in me.
Q. Do you think the competition in F1 is tougher now than it was three years ago?
MS: It is probably more tight. But tougher? No, why? There have always been tough drivers.
Q. Have you been in the Brawn GP simulator yet, and what are you expecting from the new generation of F1 cars?
MS: No, I have not been in the simulator, other than my personal one - the personal training machine that I have. The cars will be slightly different, but I have been in so many different characters of cars over the years, and a strong part of myself is that I am able to adapt to whatever the circumstances are.
Q. If there had been no space at Mercedes GP for next year, was there another option. Did McLaren offer you anything?
MS: I think there would have been no other teams seriously considered, no.
Q. If you do come back and win races and the title, do you think that will be your greatest achievement?
MS: It will be certainly a unique experience and a unique achievement. So let’s get behind the wheel first and talk later.
Michael Schumacher signs up for F1 return with Mercedes
Seven-times Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher has come out of retirement after signing for Mercedes.
The German, who will be 41 on 3 January, was unveiled at the Mercedes factory in Brackley, Northamptonshire.
Schumacher will partner compatriot Nico Rosberg in the team that won the drivers' and constructors' titles in 2009 in its former guise as Brawn.
"After three years I have the energy back and I'm ready for some serious stuff," Schumacher said.
Schumacher retired at the end of 2006 but will now return to the sport he dominated after signing a one-year deal and it is likely he will have the option to continue beyond 2010 if his returns goes well.
The 41-year-old will reportedly earn £6.2m after signing up to reunite with Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn, who masterminded all seven of his titles, the first two with Benetton in 1994-5 and the subsequent five with Ferrari from 2000-4.
606: DEBATE
I don't like Schumacher but it's a great boost for F1
KimiRaikkonen1
Schumacher was forced to call off a planned temporary comeback as a stand-in for injured Ferrari driver Felipe Massa last season because of a neck injury sustained in a motorcycle accident last February.
But Schumacher recently underwent medical checks and is confident he is back to full fitness.
"It wasn't OK in the summer, but it's had the time to heal completely," Schumacher explained.
"There is no further issue with the neck - 100%."
Schumacher's former Benetton team-mate Johnny Herbert told BBC Radio 5 live: "The fitness side is very, very important, but the way Michael keeps himself in shape - he brought the physical aspects of F1 up a couple of notches - it isn't going to be an issue.
"I don't know of anyone that has gone out of F1 and come back and actually achieved something by coming back. Alain Prost wasn't the same when he came back but because of Michael's mentality it is different."
This summer Schumacher signed a revised contract as a consultant for Ferrari, but he told Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo last week that he was "very close" to concluding a deal to race for Mercedes.
Jonathan Legard on Schumacher return
Ferrari have had to release him from his contract to enable him to race for the "Silver Arrows."
The returning Mercedes team are known to want German rising star Sebastian Vettel in the long term, but the 22-year-old is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2012.
Rosberg, who signed for Mercedes shortly after the season ended, has already warned Schumacher he faces a tough task getting back up to speed with F1 but said he would welcome him as a team-mate.
"It will not be easy for him," Rosberg was quoted in German newspaper Stuttgarter Zeitung.
"When you stay away from F1 for a long time, it takes time to get used to all the test sessions again. It's not simple.
"If he did join that would be an absolutely fantastic move."
Schumacher's comeback is the most high profile in F1 since Austrian Niki Lauda came out of a two-year retirement for the 1982 season to race for McLaren.
Lauda, who was 33 at the time, went on to win a third world title in 1984.
Juan Manuel Fangio is Formula 1's oldest world champion, the Argentine won a fifth world championship at the age of 46 before retiring.
Nigel Mansell won the 1994 Australian Grand Prix at the age of 41, having stepped in as a substitute for Williams for four races following the death of Ayrton Senna.
Schumacher's former Ferrari team-mate, Eddie Irvine, told the BBC last week that he expected Schumacher would win races, even though he would not be as powerful a force as before. .
He's not at the peak of his game, but he's still good enough to win races
Eddie Irvine
"The speed will be there, though he won't be as fast as he was seven years ago," Irvine said.
"He's not at the peak of his game, but he's still good enough to win races as he has such an immense talent. It's still four wheels, a steering wheel and an engine and there's never been anyone better than Michael."
Irvine said he thought Schumacher would be at a disadvantage in wheel-to-wheel racing compared to the younger generation of drivers such as 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton.
"Lewis isn't going to back off, but Michael will have to because he'll be 41," Irvine said.
The BBC's F1 commentator Jonathan Legard believes Schumacher can compete with the likes of Hamilton and Button if he is given a competitive enough car.
"He wouldn't do something unless he knew he could do it justice," he said. "If Mercedes are any good he'll be in the top four, maybe even pitching for the Championship."
Schumacher's decision brings his career to a neat conclusion - Mercedes, for whom he was racing in sportscars at the time, paid for his F1 debut with Jordan in 1991 but he has never raced for them in F1.
The German, who will be 41 on 3 January, was unveiled at the Mercedes factory in Brackley, Northamptonshire.
Schumacher will partner compatriot Nico Rosberg in the team that won the drivers' and constructors' titles in 2009 in its former guise as Brawn.
"After three years I have the energy back and I'm ready for some serious stuff," Schumacher said.
Schumacher retired at the end of 2006 but will now return to the sport he dominated after signing a one-year deal and it is likely he will have the option to continue beyond 2010 if his returns goes well.
The 41-year-old will reportedly earn £6.2m after signing up to reunite with Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn, who masterminded all seven of his titles, the first two with Benetton in 1994-5 and the subsequent five with Ferrari from 2000-4.
606: DEBATE
I don't like Schumacher but it's a great boost for F1
KimiRaikkonen1
Schumacher was forced to call off a planned temporary comeback as a stand-in for injured Ferrari driver Felipe Massa last season because of a neck injury sustained in a motorcycle accident last February.
But Schumacher recently underwent medical checks and is confident he is back to full fitness.
"It wasn't OK in the summer, but it's had the time to heal completely," Schumacher explained.
"There is no further issue with the neck - 100%."
Schumacher's former Benetton team-mate Johnny Herbert told BBC Radio 5 live: "The fitness side is very, very important, but the way Michael keeps himself in shape - he brought the physical aspects of F1 up a couple of notches - it isn't going to be an issue.
"I don't know of anyone that has gone out of F1 and come back and actually achieved something by coming back. Alain Prost wasn't the same when he came back but because of Michael's mentality it is different."
This summer Schumacher signed a revised contract as a consultant for Ferrari, but he told Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo last week that he was "very close" to concluding a deal to race for Mercedes.
Jonathan Legard on Schumacher return
Ferrari have had to release him from his contract to enable him to race for the "Silver Arrows."
The returning Mercedes team are known to want German rising star Sebastian Vettel in the long term, but the 22-year-old is contracted to Red Bull until the end of 2012.
Rosberg, who signed for Mercedes shortly after the season ended, has already warned Schumacher he faces a tough task getting back up to speed with F1 but said he would welcome him as a team-mate.
"It will not be easy for him," Rosberg was quoted in German newspaper Stuttgarter Zeitung.
"When you stay away from F1 for a long time, it takes time to get used to all the test sessions again. It's not simple.
"If he did join that would be an absolutely fantastic move."
Schumacher's comeback is the most high profile in F1 since Austrian Niki Lauda came out of a two-year retirement for the 1982 season to race for McLaren.
Lauda, who was 33 at the time, went on to win a third world title in 1984.
Juan Manuel Fangio is Formula 1's oldest world champion, the Argentine won a fifth world championship at the age of 46 before retiring.
Nigel Mansell won the 1994 Australian Grand Prix at the age of 41, having stepped in as a substitute for Williams for four races following the death of Ayrton Senna.
Schumacher's former Ferrari team-mate, Eddie Irvine, told the BBC last week that he expected Schumacher would win races, even though he would not be as powerful a force as before. .
He's not at the peak of his game, but he's still good enough to win races
Eddie Irvine
"The speed will be there, though he won't be as fast as he was seven years ago," Irvine said.
"He's not at the peak of his game, but he's still good enough to win races as he has such an immense talent. It's still four wheels, a steering wheel and an engine and there's never been anyone better than Michael."
Irvine said he thought Schumacher would be at a disadvantage in wheel-to-wheel racing compared to the younger generation of drivers such as 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton.
"Lewis isn't going to back off, but Michael will have to because he'll be 41," Irvine said.
The BBC's F1 commentator Jonathan Legard believes Schumacher can compete with the likes of Hamilton and Button if he is given a competitive enough car.
"He wouldn't do something unless he knew he could do it justice," he said. "If Mercedes are any good he'll be in the top four, maybe even pitching for the Championship."
Schumacher's decision brings his career to a neat conclusion - Mercedes, for whom he was racing in sportscars at the time, paid for his F1 debut with Jordan in 1991 but he has never raced for them in F1.
Mercedes to confirm Schumacher return
Michael Schumacher's return to Formula 1 is set to be confirmed later today in a press conference hosted by Mercedes-Benz.
Speculation has been mounting for days that Schumacher has agreed a deal to join Mercedes GP, with reports suggesting that he flew to Britain earlier this week to sign a contract.
Mercedes GP has now confirmed that the identity of its second driver will be announced later this morning - with the team having confirmed several weeks ago that Nico Rosberg will be racing for it in 2010.
Schumacher's F1 return comes after three years on the sidelines, having originally decided to retire from grand prix racing at the end of 2006.
However, last season he came close to a sensational mid-season comeback when he was asked to fill-in for the injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari.
Those plans had to be aborted, however, with Schumacher still suffering from a neck injury that he had picked up in a motorcycle crash earlier in the year.
Schumacher was deeply disappointed at the time, and it may have been the excitement he felt about returning to F1 then that helped motivate him to conclude the deal with Mercedes GP.
Speculation has been mounting for days that Schumacher has agreed a deal to join Mercedes GP, with reports suggesting that he flew to Britain earlier this week to sign a contract.
Mercedes GP has now confirmed that the identity of its second driver will be announced later this morning - with the team having confirmed several weeks ago that Nico Rosberg will be racing for it in 2010.
Schumacher's F1 return comes after three years on the sidelines, having originally decided to retire from grand prix racing at the end of 2006.
However, last season he came close to a sensational mid-season comeback when he was asked to fill-in for the injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari.
Those plans had to be aborted, however, with Schumacher still suffering from a neck injury that he had picked up in a motorcycle crash earlier in the year.
Schumacher was deeply disappointed at the time, and it may have been the excitement he felt about returning to F1 then that helped motivate him to conclude the deal with Mercedes GP.
Friday, 18 December 2009
Schumacher reveals comeback is close
Michael Schumacher has told Ferrari that there is a "very, very, very strong possibility" that he will race for Mercedes-Benz in Formula 1 next year, team president Luca di Montezemolo has revealed.
Although there has not yet been any official word from the Schumacher or Mercedes-Benz camps about the progress of talks in relation to an amazing comeback for the seven-time world champion, di Montezemolo has given away just how far advanced the situation now is.
Speaking to selected media, including AUTOSPORT, at Ferrari's Christmas lunch in Fiorano on Thursday, di Montezemolo shed fresh light on the Schumacher developments.
"I hadn't spoken to him since Abu Dhabi but I spoke to him yesterday (Wednesday)," said di Montezemolo about Schumacher's Mercedes-Benz situation.
"He phoned me and he told me that there is a very, very, very strong possibility [of racing for Mercedes-Benz]. Having said that, it is not 100 per cent decided. But that is what he said yesterday morning."
Di Montezemolo confirmed that Ferrari had agreed to release Schumacher from any remaining commitments he had to the Italian team so he could make the switch to Mercedes-Benz in the event of a deal coming off.
Sources have told AUTOSPORT that a deal between Schumacher and Mercedes-Benz has been agreed in principle, but that the matter cannot move forward until the German has been told by medical experts that his neck is 100 per cent ready for an F1 return.
Schumacher hurt his neck in a big motorbike accident earlier this year, and it was the legacy of that injury which forced him to abandon a comeback for Ferrari in the middle of last year.
Once Schumacher has got the medical news that he and Mercedes-Benz need, then it will be a matter of finalising his contract prior to an announcement being made.
Di Montezemolo said that he believed that it was a 'new Schumacher' who was pursuing a future with Mercedes-Benz.
"The real Michael Schumacher always told me he would finish his career at Ferrari," he said.
When asked what he had said to Schumacher during their conversation, di Montezemolo paused before saying: "Don't forget that when you start collaboration with a driver as long ago as we did with Michael, in 1995, over 14 years ago, you are also a friend.
"You can agree and disagree but you remain friends. I won't forget what he did for Ferrari and he won't forget what we did for him."
Di Montezemolo also spoke at length about the struggles Ferrari faced during 2009, having been unable to take the challenge to title rivals Brawn GP and Red Bull Racing.
"All our car architecture - the dimensions of the gearbox, everything - was based on a different interpretation of the rules and, also, we were pushing very hard until the last corner of the last race of '08," he said.
Di Montezemolo also admitted that the season had marked the closest point in his experience to seeing Ferrari quit F1.
"This year was the only one moment since I became chairman in 1991 that I was really minded to stop F1," he said. "It was the unanimous decision of the board that there was too much credibility being lost, too much polemics over the rules and not enough research.
"Now I say thank God that everything is over although we paid a big price because not to have Toyota and BMW and to have Renault in a different situation is not good for F1."
Although there has not yet been any official word from the Schumacher or Mercedes-Benz camps about the progress of talks in relation to an amazing comeback for the seven-time world champion, di Montezemolo has given away just how far advanced the situation now is.
Speaking to selected media, including AUTOSPORT, at Ferrari's Christmas lunch in Fiorano on Thursday, di Montezemolo shed fresh light on the Schumacher developments.
"I hadn't spoken to him since Abu Dhabi but I spoke to him yesterday (Wednesday)," said di Montezemolo about Schumacher's Mercedes-Benz situation.
"He phoned me and he told me that there is a very, very, very strong possibility [of racing for Mercedes-Benz]. Having said that, it is not 100 per cent decided. But that is what he said yesterday morning."
Di Montezemolo confirmed that Ferrari had agreed to release Schumacher from any remaining commitments he had to the Italian team so he could make the switch to Mercedes-Benz in the event of a deal coming off.
Sources have told AUTOSPORT that a deal between Schumacher and Mercedes-Benz has been agreed in principle, but that the matter cannot move forward until the German has been told by medical experts that his neck is 100 per cent ready for an F1 return.
Schumacher hurt his neck in a big motorbike accident earlier this year, and it was the legacy of that injury which forced him to abandon a comeback for Ferrari in the middle of last year.
Once Schumacher has got the medical news that he and Mercedes-Benz need, then it will be a matter of finalising his contract prior to an announcement being made.
Di Montezemolo said that he believed that it was a 'new Schumacher' who was pursuing a future with Mercedes-Benz.
"The real Michael Schumacher always told me he would finish his career at Ferrari," he said.
When asked what he had said to Schumacher during their conversation, di Montezemolo paused before saying: "Don't forget that when you start collaboration with a driver as long ago as we did with Michael, in 1995, over 14 years ago, you are also a friend.
"You can agree and disagree but you remain friends. I won't forget what he did for Ferrari and he won't forget what we did for him."
Di Montezemolo also spoke at length about the struggles Ferrari faced during 2009, having been unable to take the challenge to title rivals Brawn GP and Red Bull Racing.
"All our car architecture - the dimensions of the gearbox, everything - was based on a different interpretation of the rules and, also, we were pushing very hard until the last corner of the last race of '08," he said.
Di Montezemolo also admitted that the season had marked the closest point in his experience to seeing Ferrari quit F1.
"This year was the only one moment since I became chairman in 1991 that I was really minded to stop F1," he said. "It was the unanimous decision of the board that there was too much credibility being lost, too much polemics over the rules and not enough research.
"Now I say thank God that everything is over although we paid a big price because not to have Toyota and BMW and to have Renault in a different situation is not good for F1."
Monday, 30 November 2009
Massa and Schumacher: win for two in kart
Florianopolis, 29 November 2009 - A special weekend for Felipe Massa, back at racing after his long absence after his incredible accident in Budapest on 25 July. The Ferrari driver was the highlight at the "International Champion Challenge", the competition, which has been organised by Massa himself in Florianopolis, Brazil, for several years.
Felipe, third in the first race after a beautiful performance from the eleventh position on the grid, won the second race, held today afternoon, after he had gained the sixth starting position. After loosing two positions at the start the Ferrarista closed the gap and passed the leader, his fellow countryman Vitor Meira, on the last laps. Michael Schumacher crossed the line second in the first race, gaining the trophy with 42 points, thanks to the overall result from both races. Michael was ahead of Felipe (36 points) and Meira (26) in the overall standings.
"This was a fantastic event, maybe the most important kart event in the world," Felipe said after the race. "I demonstrated to be competitive like before the accident and that makes me happy. I think that if there were still any doubts, today I gave the answer. In the end I had a fierce fight with Michael, who was slightly faster, but I made it."
Schumacher dominated the event also in 2007 and could repeat his win today: "it was like in the old days, with Felipe and me on the highest places on the podium: I'm very happy and proud of him. It was a wonderful race and a beautiful day for all of us who took part."
Felipe, third in the first race after a beautiful performance from the eleventh position on the grid, won the second race, held today afternoon, after he had gained the sixth starting position. After loosing two positions at the start the Ferrarista closed the gap and passed the leader, his fellow countryman Vitor Meira, on the last laps. Michael Schumacher crossed the line second in the first race, gaining the trophy with 42 points, thanks to the overall result from both races. Michael was ahead of Felipe (36 points) and Meira (26) in the overall standings.
"This was a fantastic event, maybe the most important kart event in the world," Felipe said after the race. "I demonstrated to be competitive like before the accident and that makes me happy. I think that if there were still any doubts, today I gave the answer. In the end I had a fierce fight with Michael, who was slightly faster, but I made it."
Schumacher dominated the event also in 2007 and could repeat his win today: "it was like in the old days, with Felipe and me on the highest places on the podium: I'm very happy and proud of him. It was a wonderful race and a beautiful day for all of us who took part."
Friday, 20 November 2009
Michael Schumacher in line for sensational Formula One return at Mercedes
Michael Schumacher has been sounded out about a sensational return to Formula One next season.
Return of the king: F1's most successful race driver Michael Schumacher could be about to come out of retirement with Mercedes The 40 year-old seven-time world champion was due to make a comeback for Ferrari as a substitute for the injured Felipe Massa last season before a neck injury forced him to stand down.
But following last week’s Mercedes takeover of Brawn GP and world champion Jenson Button’s shock switch to McLaren, the possibility of a German dream team with Nico Rosberg is emerging.
The associations line up beautifully. Schumacher won all his world titles under the guidance at Benetton and Ferrari of Ross Brawn, who will continue in the role of team principal at the newly-minted Mercedes team.
Schumacher’s connection with Mercedes goes back to his youth when he was part of the marque’s young driver programme. As co-owners at McLaren, Mercedes launched at least one serious attempt to persuade Schumacher to join them from Ferrari.
Head of Mercedes motorsport Norbert Haug failed on that occasion. The stars and moons are in better alignment now, though talks are understood to be at an early stage.
Six months ago while driving around the Ascari circuit in southern Spain as part of a sponsorship engagement, Schumacher insisted that he had no regrets about retirement. The time was right, he said, to devote himself to his young family and pursue other interests.
His retainer with Ferrari kept him in the F1 loop and he was a frequent visitor on the pit wall during races.
The picture shifts quickly in sport. Massa’s freak head injury during qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix in July presented an unforeseen opportunity. When the chance to race again was dangled before him, Schumacher found that he could not say no.
Opportunity knocks a second time. The big money that he banked at Ferrari, upwards of £50 million a year including endorsements, is not available this time around. The downshift by Mercedes from McLaren to Brawn was premised on the need to reign in spending.
Schumacher would be coming back to F1 on a budget, offered the same deal turned down by Button. That would not worry him. The huge commercial appeal attached to the return of the seven times world champion would more than make up his money.
Button made his final visit to Brackley on Thursday to say farewell. His appearance provoked sadness and anger. There would have been no talk of Schumacher at Mercedes had Button said yes to their offer. He was rated highly by a management team who felt they had gone as far as they could go with their multi-million pound offer.
The timing of his unveiling as a McLaren driver cut across his visit, which was clumsy in the extreme. This was no way to end a fairytale. Button has been here before in a career punctuated by ham-fisted moves.
If anyone can apply balm to the wounds at Brackley it is Schumacher. Formula One went bonkers at the thought of a comeback in August. That was only a temporary affair.
This would be full-on for a year at least; Schumacher going up against McLaren’s back-to-back world champions Button and Lewis Hamilton, not to mention Alonso and Massa at Ferrari and his own Red Bull protégé Sebastien Vettel.
Interest in F1 in Britain is glowing red hot following Button’s world championship win and his subsequent move to McLaren. Beyond our shores neither Button nor Hamilton is the big sell that Schumacher is. His brand is global.
Schumacher would not be at the table were he not smitten with the comeback idea. His heart is beating again.
We thought Button’s rise from the Monaco dole queue to world champion in eight mad months was a story. How about Schumacher coming back to win an eighth world title in Button’s old motor? Wishful thinking? Not according to the tom tom drums.
Return of the king: F1's most successful race driver Michael Schumacher could be about to come out of retirement with Mercedes The 40 year-old seven-time world champion was due to make a comeback for Ferrari as a substitute for the injured Felipe Massa last season before a neck injury forced him to stand down.
But following last week’s Mercedes takeover of Brawn GP and world champion Jenson Button’s shock switch to McLaren, the possibility of a German dream team with Nico Rosberg is emerging.
The associations line up beautifully. Schumacher won all his world titles under the guidance at Benetton and Ferrari of Ross Brawn, who will continue in the role of team principal at the newly-minted Mercedes team.
Schumacher’s connection with Mercedes goes back to his youth when he was part of the marque’s young driver programme. As co-owners at McLaren, Mercedes launched at least one serious attempt to persuade Schumacher to join them from Ferrari.
Head of Mercedes motorsport Norbert Haug failed on that occasion. The stars and moons are in better alignment now, though talks are understood to be at an early stage.
Six months ago while driving around the Ascari circuit in southern Spain as part of a sponsorship engagement, Schumacher insisted that he had no regrets about retirement. The time was right, he said, to devote himself to his young family and pursue other interests.
His retainer with Ferrari kept him in the F1 loop and he was a frequent visitor on the pit wall during races.
The picture shifts quickly in sport. Massa’s freak head injury during qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix in July presented an unforeseen opportunity. When the chance to race again was dangled before him, Schumacher found that he could not say no.
Opportunity knocks a second time. The big money that he banked at Ferrari, upwards of £50 million a year including endorsements, is not available this time around. The downshift by Mercedes from McLaren to Brawn was premised on the need to reign in spending.
Schumacher would be coming back to F1 on a budget, offered the same deal turned down by Button. That would not worry him. The huge commercial appeal attached to the return of the seven times world champion would more than make up his money.
Button made his final visit to Brackley on Thursday to say farewell. His appearance provoked sadness and anger. There would have been no talk of Schumacher at Mercedes had Button said yes to their offer. He was rated highly by a management team who felt they had gone as far as they could go with their multi-million pound offer.
The timing of his unveiling as a McLaren driver cut across his visit, which was clumsy in the extreme. This was no way to end a fairytale. Button has been here before in a career punctuated by ham-fisted moves.
If anyone can apply balm to the wounds at Brackley it is Schumacher. Formula One went bonkers at the thought of a comeback in August. That was only a temporary affair.
This would be full-on for a year at least; Schumacher going up against McLaren’s back-to-back world champions Button and Lewis Hamilton, not to mention Alonso and Massa at Ferrari and his own Red Bull protégé Sebastien Vettel.
Interest in F1 in Britain is glowing red hot following Button’s world championship win and his subsequent move to McLaren. Beyond our shores neither Button nor Hamilton is the big sell that Schumacher is. His brand is global.
Schumacher would not be at the table were he not smitten with the comeback idea. His heart is beating again.
We thought Button’s rise from the Monaco dole queue to world champion in eight mad months was a story. How about Schumacher coming back to win an eighth world title in Button’s old motor? Wishful thinking? Not according to the tom tom drums.
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
Schumacher congratulates Brawn, consoles Vettel
There’s not much seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher doesn’t know about what it takes to win Formula One titles. And following the success of Brawn GP and Jenson Button in Brazil on Sunday, Schumacher has taken time out to pass on his good wishes as the team celebrate wrapping up the 2009 drivers’ and constructors’ championships.
The German was particularly keen to praise long-time friend - and Brawn GP team principal - Ross Brawn. Alongside Brawn, Schumacher won back-to-back drivers’ championships in 1994 and 1995 with Benetton. The pair later reunited at Ferrari and together clinched successive constructors’ titles from 1999 and 2004, and a run of five successive driver crowns for Schumacher from 2000.
“Congratulations to Jenson and Ross and the whole team - what they managed to achieve this year has my full respect,” said Schumacher on his official website. “If you only look at what they have been through you realize what an incredible story this is: just one year ago they did think everything was over. I am extremely happy for Ross who I’ve known for such a long time now. He deserves this success.”
The 40 year-old also advised fellow German driver Sebastian Vettel not to feel too downhearted about missing out on the title this year, but to instead take pleasure from his achievements. Vettel was still in the running for the drivers’ crown ahead of the Brazilian race, but his fourth-place finish at Interlagos ended his hopes.
“What a pity obviously for Sebastian, but he still has a lot of time,” concluded Schumacher. “He had a fantastic season and showed that he has everything to become world champion. He must not forget that with all the disappointment now. Of course he will see that differently at the moment and will need some days to digest this weekend. But I am sure we will see a lot of good stuff from him in the future."
The German was particularly keen to praise long-time friend - and Brawn GP team principal - Ross Brawn. Alongside Brawn, Schumacher won back-to-back drivers’ championships in 1994 and 1995 with Benetton. The pair later reunited at Ferrari and together clinched successive constructors’ titles from 1999 and 2004, and a run of five successive driver crowns for Schumacher from 2000.
“Congratulations to Jenson and Ross and the whole team - what they managed to achieve this year has my full respect,” said Schumacher on his official website. “If you only look at what they have been through you realize what an incredible story this is: just one year ago they did think everything was over. I am extremely happy for Ross who I’ve known for such a long time now. He deserves this success.”
The 40 year-old also advised fellow German driver Sebastian Vettel not to feel too downhearted about missing out on the title this year, but to instead take pleasure from his achievements. Vettel was still in the running for the drivers’ crown ahead of the Brazilian race, but his fourth-place finish at Interlagos ended his hopes.
“What a pity obviously for Sebastian, but he still has a lot of time,” concluded Schumacher. “He had a fantastic season and showed that he has everything to become world champion. He must not forget that with all the disappointment now. Of course he will see that differently at the moment and will need some days to digest this weekend. But I am sure we will see a lot of good stuff from him in the future."
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