Defiant Schumacher insists he won’t abort comeback and eyes eighth title
SEVEN-TIME champion Michael Schumacher has categorically denied he could abort his comeback after an underwhelming first half of the season and confirmed he will definitely race again next year.
Schumacher had been tipped to challenge for an eighth title after ending his self-imposed exile and agreeing to drive for the revamped Mercedes team.
But the 41-year-old German has yet to finish on the podium since returning to the track and languishes in ninth place in the drivers’ standings going into his home Grand Prix this weekend.
Yet Schumacher was on bullish form yesterday on the eve of the Hockenheim meeting, insisting his disappointing recent form has not dented his conviction that he can win another world championship.
Asked to categorically confirm that he would race next season, Schumacher said: “Yes.”
And when quizzed over his targets for 2011, he added: “It is what I mentioned the other day – that I officially publicised when I rejoined F1 – which is to win the title. That is my focus and that is what I am here for.”
The former Ferrari racer admits his comeback has not gone according to plan but directed some of the blame at his car and suggested hopes of instant success had been unrealistic.
“Am I perfectly happy with my own performance? That is probably the wrong thing to say,” said Schumacher (left).
“There is an expectation out there, but you have to be realistic that it is probably impossible to meet. To be out three years and start where I finished in a car that doesn’t allow me do it, is unrealistic. I will take my time. I enjoy most of it, this process. There are ups and downs and that is part of motorsport. I am very confident I can achieve it, which is what I am focusing for.”