Schumacher could stay beyond 2012

Published: 7:40AM Thursday January 28, 2010 Source: Reuters

  • Print this article
  • Text size + -

Seven times Formula One champion Michael Schumacher, who has come out of retirement to sign a three-year deal with Mercedes at the age of 41, says he could stay on beyond his current contract.

Mercedes have taken over 2009 champions Brawn, run by Schumacher's friend and former Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn.

"The good thing is that Mercedes believes in me and is giving me the chance for three years to have success," the German told Bild newspaper on Thursday.

"But it does not mean it will end after three years."

"I thought about everything very carefully: Am I just spontaneously high or is my enthusiasm long-term?" Schumacher said.

"I have been excited for quite some time and can imagine doing this for a few years."

The German retired in 2006 after winning two titles with Benetton and five with Ferrari, with Brawn the technical director in both teams.

He will be up against former world champions Fernando Alonso, now at Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton and reigning champion Jenson Button at McLaren.

  • Print this article
  • Text size + -
  • more...

Motorsport Video

How do you want your news?

  • Mobile Devices

    TVNZ is available on mobile phones: Text TVNZ to 8869.

  • News Feeds

    See when TVNZ have added new content. You can get the latest headlines anywhere.

  • Podcasts

    Enjoy TVNZ on the move - a wide range of programmes and highlights are available.