Hero Returns – Schumacher Saves Ferrari
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Seven-time world champion takes mantle from injured Massa.
Michael Schumacher is back. The old warhorse has pledged to help out his old racing team at Ferrari by coming out of retirement to replace the injured Felipe Massa.
Rarely, if ever has a single season of F1 had so much drama and tension. There have been more twists to this season than an M. Night Shyamalan movie; and frankly who needs Hollywood when the real world has provided triumphant upstarts (Brawn), underdogs come good (Jenson Button), tragedy (Massa) and now the return of a hero to save the day (Schumacher).
Ferrari made their official announcement at six o’clock on Wednesday evening: “Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro intends to entrust Michael Schumacher with Felipe Massa’s car until the Brazilian driver is able to race again.” When that announcement was made, it could almost have been accompanied by an epic Gladiator-esque score reaching a crescendo, for Ferrari have found their saviour.
Just three weeks ago, Schumacher was confident that he would not be baited out of retirement, but in the exceptional circumstances of Massa’s freak accident, the seven-time world champion felt honour-bound to help his former colleagues and friends.
Schumacher was adamant: “The most important thing first: thank God, all news concerning Felipe is positive, and I wish him all the best again.” The 40-year-old veteran now has a punishing month ahead of him as he prepares for a gruelling training scheme to get himself fit for the European Grand Prix which takes place on 23 August 2009.
Schumacher’s hasn’t raced competitively since 2006, so it’s natural that his skills will be a little rusty and far from their peak. However, with 91 Grand Prix victories to his name, Schumacher is still a force to be reckoned with. The remainder of the season is going to a thrilling Clash of the Titans epic.
Has Schumacher still got what it takes? Tell us your thoughts on the return of the racing legend.
