Ferrari will have its secret weapon in Melbourne: Schumacher

The record-breaking man Michael Schumacher is still constantly in demand. Indeed, Ferrari has allowed the seven-time world champion to fly to the Australian opening of the season, which already promises to be highly competitive.

Thus, the 40-year-old retiree will be present for the first time at the Albert Park circuit since his retirement from competition in 2006, in order to support Ferrari. In the past two years, having a Schumacher in the team wasn’t of utmost importance. But today, with the rule changes for 2009, Michael can help the engineers better understand the car. It’s a part of his job that he must carry out within the Ferrari family, revealed Willi Weber, the manager of the former German driver.

Of course, the other reason (and surely the main one) is none other than Ross Brawn. The former super brain of Ferrari is currently, with his team Brawn GP, shaking up Formula 1 and giving the reds serious headaches.

Indeed, if anyone fully understands how Brawn operates, it’s Schumacher himself. Let’s not forget that Ross Brawn was by his side for every world championship title won, from Benetton to Ferrari. The sensational team director is therefore considered a title maker due to his ability to create exceptional cars.

« Communication with the engineers will be decisive. They will together exploit the mass of data. And this is where Michael’s experience is crucial », continues Weber. His experience will also be consulted for the Malaysian Grand Prix, as Ferrari has already « reserved » Schumi’s services for the second race.