“I don't think Michael can win the first race. He will need a few races to become accustomed to these cars and the many new drivers. But then I hope to see the famous Schumi. That was always his strength: to adapt and learn incredibly quickly,” said Brawn about his 41-year old driver, according to German newspaper Bild.
The 7-time world champion made no secret from his desire to win an 8th world championship in Formula One, this being the reason why he signed a 3-year contract with the Brackley-based team in the first place. Although admitting he'll find it difficult to challenge for the title or even race wins in his first season, the long-term aim is for him to win another F1 crown.
During recent interviews with the media, Ferrari's Fernando Alonso revealed that he sees Schumacher as one of his top rivals for the 2010 title, alongside the other drivers from McLaren, Mercedes and Red Bull Racing. In addition, in most bookmakers' betting offer for the 2010 season, the German is seen as having the 3rd chance at grabbing the title, after Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso.
Ross Brawn also referred to the period of time Schumacher experienced back in 2006, when he decided to quit F1.
“Formula one was a burden for him in late '06. Not the driving, but everything else. He felt stressed, but that feeling is gone now,” added the Mercedes principal, who insisted Schu's more relaxed state will also help him through his comeback year.
Google News