Mercedes GP boss Ross Brawn may be asserting that Michael Schumacher would come good soon in his comeback year in Formula One.
Mercedes GP boss Ross Brawn may be asserting that Michael Schumacher would come good soon in his comeback year in Formula One.
But former Renault team boss Flavio Briatore, who played an instrumental role in the rise of Schumacher, believes the 41-year-old German is not championship material anymore.
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| Michael Schumacher's return to Formula One has not been a very successful one. PIC/AFP |
"The news about Schumacher's return was good for last year's winter. However, if you don't race for three or four years, it is very tough to start winning again," Briatore told MiD DAY over phone.
Briatore said that the other factor could be a lack of hunger in Schumacher compared to the younger talented drivers on the grid. "The competition is very tough. Besides, there have been many changes in technology since Michael left Formula 1 in 2006. These factors are contributing to Michael's below-par performance," Briatore said.
The 60-year-old Italian, who was allegedly involved in the 'crashgate' controversy, said he was happy to have reached a settlement with FIA. Following the controversy involving Briatore during the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix, the FIA had imposed a life ban on the Italian. However, a French court had overturned the ban dealing a big blow to the world governing body. The FIA was expected to appeal the ban in the court. However, in between, the FIA administration changed and the new FIA president Jean Todt initiated a settlement with Briatore by which FIA wouldn't appeal against the ban while Briatore would remain out of Formula 1 till 2013.
"Times have changed. There is a new administration at FIA. The new president has tried to find a solution. I am very happy with the settlement," Briatore remarked.
About the possibility of a return to Formula 1, Briatore said that his focus was on family and his baby at present. "Formula 1 is not a priority right now. Maybe in the future, if some teams approach and we reach some agreement, there is a possibility. But as of now, I am going to lead a more relaxed life," he said.
