MICHAEL SCHUMACHER IS BACK AND WILL DRIVE FOR FERRARI F1

[SDGT3]

Reports on Massa's condition are very positive, but he will be out at least for several months, if not the rest of the year. I can't think of a better driver to replace him. This is AWESOME!!

Official: Schumacher returns to replace Massa
29 July 2009


In another dramatic twist to the 2009 season, seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher will be replacing the injured Felipe Massa at the European Grand Prix in Valencia. With rumours having circulated since the Brazilian's accident on Saturday, Ferrari confirmed the decision on Wednesday evening.



Having retired at the end of the 2006 season, the unexpected return of the German will see him partner his own replacement at Ferrari, 2007 World Champion Kimi Räikkönen, until the recovering Massa is able to return to his position.

Despite having kept fit due to his motor cycle commitment earlier in the year, Schumacher will be involving in a training programme with the team on the lead up to the Valencia race on 23 August. Doubts remain over the condition of Massa, although the Brazilian walked for the first time post-accident in hospital on Wednesday.

[MR LIPP]

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/motorsport/formulaone/ferrari/5933916/Michael-Schumacher-returns-to-Formula-One-with-Ferrari.html

[SDGT3]

in other F1 news, BMW has announced they will not continue beyond the 2009 season

[Amail]

With Renault suspended from the Valencia race, I was really hoping to see Alonso keep his chance to drive for his home crowd in a red car. With rumors flying of his ride for 2010 being Ferrari, it would have been a fantastic preview. Unfortunately, Flavio probably doesn't want team ING to appear fragmented any more than it already is.

[SDGT3]

Alonso was never going to drive in Valencia for Ferrari. No way Renault would chance their team data being taken over to Ferrari for a one off and used by Alonso and Ferrari. Remember Alonso has a history of using known stolen team secrets and data when with McLaren and using it to his advantage, then denying he ever did... they recanting when the text messages between he and De La Rosa became public. Eventually Alonso blackmailed Ron Dennis if he wasn't given #1 status over Hamilton at McLaren and finally wasn't penalized, suspended or fined when he cooperated with the FIA in their investigation. So no, I don't think Alonso could be trusted with fresh Renault specs and info, especially since their car seems to be running much better now.

My guest is that the appeal filed by Renault will be won and Renault will be on the grid at Valencia with some sort of fine.

Folks, we have an opportunity to see the follow on grid at Valencia.

Michael Schumacher (7 time WDC) paired with Kimi (1 time WDC)

Against Lewis Hamilton (defending WDC)

Against Fernando Alonso (2 time WDC)

Against Jenson Button (Leading 2009 WDC)

Against Vettel and Webber (either could win the 2009 WDC)

this is Fantasic!!!

[stevemckay]

Formula 1 has brought it self back to life through an unfortunate accident,and finish their season with great intrigue!

[Chris Moon]

So does this mean the massive chop across the track when starting from pole comes back, too?

[martinreinhardt]

Michael Schumacher will not replace Felipe Massa after all, due to his neck injuries. Test driver Luca Badoer will be driving the Ferrari

http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,,4560477,00.html

[cam]

They say he stepped off his bike pretty hard. Some were surprised he was going to try it at all.