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Mercedes sign up former world champ
Formula 1, 11:50, December 23, 2009 ,
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher has confirmed he will return to the sport and drive for Mercedes next season.
The 40-year-old has signed a one-year contract with Mercedes and will reportedly earn £6.2m from the deal, with an option to carry on beyond 2010 if things go well.
The move sees the German driver reunited with Ross Brawn, the man who masterminded all seven of his title victories, firstly with Benetton and then Ferrari.
Schumacher will partner Nico Roseberg in the silver arrows line up as he returns to the sport he dominated until his retirement in 2006.
"After three years I have the energy back and I'm ready for some serious stuff," Schumacher said.
Schumacher was scheduled to take the place of injured Ferrari driver Felipe Massa last season, but had to drop out because of a neck injury he sustained in a motorcycle accident in February.
However, Schumacher insists all his health issues are behind him and he will be fit for the start of the new season.
"It wasn't OK in the summer, but it's had the time to heal completely," he added.
"There is no further issue with the neck - 100%."