Hamilton is happy about Schumacher’s return

The return of Schumacher to F1 is causing quite a stir from all sides. It’s now the turn of Lewis Hamilton, reigning world champion, to share his thoughts on the matter.

The young Englishman said he was very happy to be able to race against Michael Schumacher at the European Grand Prix in Valencia. The seven-time German world champion will replace Felipe Massa in Spain next month as long as the Brazilian is not declared fit to race by the doctors. It will be the first time the German returns to the F1 circuits since his retirement at the end of 2006. It will also be the first time he discovers the Valencia Grand Prix track.

Although Hamilton says he’s thinking a lot about Massa, the McLaren driver announces he’s eager to meet Schumacher on the same track as him (for the first time).

« I am very excited to see Michael Schumacher in a Formula 1, but my thoughts go out to Felipe [Massa] and his family following his terrible accident in Hungary » states the Brit.

Michael is one of the greatest competitors in the sport and a true legend. It would be great to compete against him. The whole world will have its eyes on his return to a cockpit in Valencia, and it will not only be exciting to watch how he prepares for his big comeback but also an honor and a privilege to race against him for the first time. I wish him good luck, adds Lewis Hamilton.

The championship leader Jenson Button also welcomed Schumacher’s return, and the Brawn driver believes that the former world champion will be very competitive.

« It’s a difficult situation for him to be a driver again, but I’m glad he decided to take on the challenge and it’s very brave of him, » Jenson Button told the BBC.

« He is still young – 40 is not old, » advocates Button.