Schumacher Confirms F1 Return With Mercedes
Berlin. Seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher is coming out of retirement to drive for Mercedes in 2010, saying he expects to contend for the title.
The German, who turns 41 on Jan. 3, announced his comeback on Wednesday after three years away from the sport he dominated for the first half of the decade, ending weeks of speculation.
“Three years of absence gave back all the energy that I’m feeling right now,” Schumacher said in a telephone conference. “I feel ready for some serious stuff.
“I feel absolutely on the edge. It’s thrilling and exciting. I believe I can be absolutely competitive.”
Schumacher, who will partner with Nico Rosberg in an all-German team for the 2010 season, said he and Mercedes are discussing a deal through the 2012 season.
Financial terms were not disclosed, but Germany’s Bild daily — which first broke news of the deal — reported he would earn 7 million euros ($10 million) under an initial one-year contract.
Schumacher’s return marks a fascinating turning point in the sport’s history. The question is: Will it enhance or damage the German’s glittering legacy?
He is F1’s most successful driver with record numbers in all categories: 91 race wins, 68 pole positions and 76 fastest laps.
But will his comeback be a success or another example of an over-the-hill athlete clutching at past glory?
Schumacher returns in one of the most competitive eras of F1, with three other champions on the grid: Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton and defending champion Jenson Button.
“[The cars] will be slightly different, but I have been in so many characters of different cars over the years,” he said. “The strong part of myself is I am capable of adapting in all circumstances.”
“Schumacher coming back to F1 is great news for the sport,” Button said recently. “But I don’t know if it will be great news for Michael Schumacher. He will be putting his reputation on the line coming back into the sport.”
Associated Press
