Official: Michael Schumacher will retire at the end of the season

This time, it’s truly over. Michael Schumacher will put a definitive end to his Formula 1 career, which began one day in August 1991 when he replaced Bertrand Gachot at Jordan. The first part of his career saw him conquer the world championship seven times, triumphing with the Benetton teams (1994 and 1995) and then Ferrari (from 2000 to 2004), before retiring – slightly nudged towards the exit – at the end of 2006. His second career, which began in 2010 with Mercedes, will also come to an end with, for now, a podium achieved this season in Valencia.

The wildest transfer rumors had him going to Ferrari in place of Felipe Massa, while other more realistic whispers suggested the possibility of ending his career at Sauber. Michael Schumacher has therefore chosen the path of retirement, even if his future remains subject to questions.

During his press conference, the German driver expressed himself with quite a bit of emotion: “We did not achieve our objectives, but I can be happy with all the things accomplished during my career,” he stated, before addressing the family of his second career: “I want to thank Daimler, Mercedes-Benz, the team, my engineers and my mechanics for the trust they have placed in me. I would now like to focus on the end of the season and enjoy these races with you.”

I have thought a lot [about this decision]. We had a three-year agreement, it’s difficult to maintain motivation and energy: it’s natural to think about this more than when you are young. I have long had doubts about whether I had the energy [to continue]. I said in 2006 that my batteries were empty and today I am in the red zone. I don’t know if it’s time to recharge them, but I am looking forward to being free. I have no hard feelings. In a way, we have achieved a great operation… I will do exactly what I did the first time: finish and focus 100% on what I am doing.

*More information to come.*