Schumacher confirms that he is indeed retired…

Michael Schumacher specified on Monday that he is not reconsidering his decision to retire from F1 racing.

Tuesday and Wednesday, at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona, the seven-time world champion aged 38 will be driving a Ferrari as the off-season begins.

But this occasion marks his first official action in F1 since he last raced in Brazil over a year ago. The German stated that he simply wants to enjoy the experience and help Ferrari prepare for 2008.

Schumacher will be present in Spain and will work alongside his 2006 teammates, Felipe Massa, as well as test drivers Marc Gene and Luca Badoer.

« It is clear that I am looking forward to it. My love for this sport has not diminished, and driving an F1 is an immense pleasure, » he added.

« But this has nothing to do with my retirement decision that I made a year ago, which is, indeed, final, » he added.

It is believed that Ferrari was particularly keen on the help Schumacher could provide due to his extensive experience from the years when traction control was banned.

« I hope that I can help them and support Ferrari in their preparations for the new season, » continued Schumacher.

He concluded by saying: « In 2008, electronic aids will be banned in F1, so my experience could be useful. »