Michael Schumacher on Wednesday dismissed as “speculation” suggestions he might try to re-start his Formula One comeback at a later date.
Some pundits and publications predict that after a two-race stint for Luca Badoer, the 40-year-old German might try again to be fit for Ferrari’s home race at Monza.
At a press conference alongside his doctor Johannes Peil in Geneva, it was confirmed that the seven time world champion did sustain head, neck and rib damage, as well as an artery injury, in a motorcycle testing crash in February.
But as for the Monza rumours, and Luca di Montezemolo’s apparent desire to prepare a third car for Schumacher next year, the German said: “There is always speculation. I’m very disappointed not to do what I was looking forward doing and that’s all I’m thinking about.”
Dr Peil meanwhile said Schumacher is healthy apart from the aforementioned motorcycle injuries.
The Italian newspaper Tuttosport said: “We can only hope. Perhaps Schumacher will make his comeback at Monza.”
One pundit who hopes Schumacher is soon fit enough to race is Niki Lauda, who to the Austrian broadcaster ORF is scathing of Felipe Massa’s new understudy, Badoer.
“For Ferrari it’s a disaster because there is no driver market,” the triple world champion said. “I could drive in the place of Badoer and also be at the back. He hasn’t driven any Grand Prix in ten years and is simply not good enough.”
Former German driver, Hans-Joachim Stuck, also stated his opinion on Schumacher’s return: “I would not rule out a comeback for Michael totally. Perhaps next year, if he is able to recover from his injuries completely.”
Source: GMM via F1-Live
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