Ekstrom Would Bet Money on Schumacher in F1

While intensively preparing for another campaign in the DTM series, Mattias Ekstrom admitted that plenty of German fans will switch attention to the Formula One racing season for 2010. And that's because the 7-time winner of the F1 title Michael Schumacher is back, returning to action after 3 years outside the sport.

Talking about the German's chances of clinching an 8th title in the series, Ekstrom admitted that he would not hesitate to put his money on Schumacher's winning a few races in 2010.

“I’d bet quite a bit of my money on Michael Schumacher winning some races. He’s won seven titles and his name is Schumacher – so it’s clear that he’s got to set ambitious goals for himself. But I see other drivers running in front of him there and then; despite all his experience, he’s going to learn the hard way,” said the Swedish racer.

Being part of a team that is sponsored by Austrian energy drink Red Bull, Ekstrom admitted that his personal favorite driver in F1 is young German superstar Sebastian Vettel, with whom he is also good friends outside racing. Vettel currently drives for Red Bull Racing.

As for Ektrom's aims for the new season, one doesn't have to think too much on what the Swede will be focusing on in 2010. Clinching his 3rd DTM title for Audi is surely top of the list, which is why he canceled his plans for the 90-kilometer "Wasa run" on skies through the Swedish woods this month.

“My schedule is simply too tight. And if you do it, you’ve got to do it right,” said Ekstrom. “As in the years before, Audi and Mercedes will be battling against each other on equal footing. It’ll be crucial to deliver a consistent performance, score points and set some highlights. That’s the way to achieve our big aim, the title.”