Formula One:Michael Schumacher was back "on full alert" today as he prepared for his Formula One return, even if bad weather put a dampener on his progress.
The seven-time world champion has been allowed to assist the GP2 Series in their development of a car planned from 2011.
That saw Schumacher back on track at the Jerez circuit in southern Spain, with the German completing 52 laps, albeit in predominantly wet conditions that ultimately forced a halt to the day’s schedule.
Nevertheless, Schumacher was happy with his day’s work as he closes in on a comeback after three years in retirement.
“Today was good, especially because after a long time I could drive again in a car that came close to a current Formula One car,” said the 41-year-old.
“Despite the weather not being what we all would have liked all my senses were nevertheless on full alert. This alone was worth it.
“Unfortunately, it was always just too wet to go out with slicks. I tried them twice, but had to go back to the box (pits) immediately.
“But still, I am gaining a lot from being here because even if you cannot reach F1 level in terms of G-forces, you are still able to practice communication with the engineers.
“I felt comfortable out on the track from the very beginning, and naturally I’d like to thank our team and the GP2 Series very much for the opportunity to drive.”
Schumacher will spend another two days behind the wheel, with his drive today defended by Mercedes motorsport boss Norbert Haug.
There is a feeling Schumacher is gaining an unfair advantage with this week’s test, and that he should have waited for the first F1 test in Valencia from February 1-3 to get up to speed.
“I don’t see it that way,” replied Haug when asked if Schumacher was gaining an edge on his rivals ahead of the new season that begins in Bahrain in mid-March.
“And whoever does can rent a GP2 car for themselves."
-PA