Michael Schumacher could make his final Formula 1 appearance in Abu Dhabi after coming out of retirement at the age of 40. The seven-time world champion, considered the sport's most successful driver, has agreed to return for Ferrari as a replacement for the injured Felipe Massa. The Brazilian is recovering in hospital after an accident in last weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix, where he suffered a fractured skull. Schumacher has been an adviser to the Ferrari team since quitting as a driver in 2006, and worked closely with Massa. Now the German will undergo a training programme to get fit before stepping into the hot seat at the European Grand Prix in Valencia on August 23.
With the hope that Massa will return next season, Schumacher is only expected to compete in the remaining seven races, including the season finale on November 1 at the Yas Marina Circuit. Schumacher said: "Though it is true that the chapter of Formula 1 has been completely closed for me for a long time, it is also true that for loyalty reasons to the team, I cannot ignore that unfortunate situation. But as the competitor I am, I also very much look forward to facing this challenge." akhan@thenational.ae
