For the first time since 1996, Michael Schumacher stood alongside the rest of the Scuderia Ferrari team as they presented their new contender, knowing that he would not be one of the two drivers leading the charge for the world championship crown.
Opting to retire at the end of the 2006 season, Michael’s place in the team was taken by Kimi Raikkonen, but that didn’t mean an interest wasn’t there. The German legend had a good look at the car expected to return the crown to the Scuderia, however, according to team boss Jean Todt, his star driver isn’t missing the F circus at the moment, but as soon as he does, they are more than willing to let him drive….
"I asked him (Michael) if he was finding it difficult. His reply was very clear, 'Absolutely not, if I miss driving, then I'll go karting'. Joking aside, if Michael asks to drive the car we'll find a racing suit for him with pleasure."
I bet they have already?
The stig
Michael may not be in the driving seat, but he is still working with the Scuderia and is expected to assist the team’s drivers, Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen throughout the season in a consultancy role.