Schumacher return “more than a rumour”

The ongoing rumour of a possible return to Formula One by Seven-times World Champion Michael Schumacher has been given more weight after Bernie Ecclestone commented that the speculation was ‘maybe getting a bit stronger than a rumour’.

His comments come after Schumacher himself was quoted as saying ‘anything can happen’ when questioned about it. There seems little doubt that the German is considering a return, but the question remains as to if it will actually happen.

Schumacher was due to step in to replace the injured Felipe Massa earlier this year after the Brazilian was seriously injured in a horrific accident during qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix. A neck injury prevented the German from making his comeback, however it doubtlessly whetted his appetite for another attempt at the World Championship crown.

The return of Schumacher to Formula One would be an instant success story for the sport, with ticket sales increasing in 2009 when it was announced that he would be making a return. The prospect of Schumacher racing against the likes of Hamilton, Button, Alonso and Massa is a thrilling prospect for 2010.

The only question remains – why would he do it? It is worth considering that before he decided to stand in for the injured Felipe Massa he seemed content with his retirement. The prospect of racing again, and the obvious disappointment he felt last year when he was sidelined with his neck injury was clear to see, and maybe this was just the encouragement he needed to get the ‘bug’ again for racing.

The next few weeks look to be thrilling as we await news from the Schumacher/Mercedes camp as to the future of the seven-times champion, and if he dares to take on the young guns of today. However he will have one trick up his sleeve that only Rubens Barrichello can share with him – experience of racing in F1 without fuel stops.