Hakkinen Thinks Schumacher Will Win Races in 2010

Former two-time world champion Mika Hakkinen also stepped into Michael Schumacher's defense following the criticism issued by the media on the German's driving performance at F1 return. While eager to return to F1 himself, but only as a manager of some kind, the Finnish ace argued the lack of results in Schumacher's car is well connected with his level of concentration.

“This sport expects total concentration, which is difficult to achieve when you are 41. At that age, different things are important in your life,” said Hakkinen in an interview with ESPN.

Nevertheless, Hakkinen expects the German to win at least one race of the remaining 15 on the 2010 schedule, as he knows the Mercedes driver all too well ever since their on-track battles in the early 2000s.

“I'm pretty certain that Schumacher will still win a race this season. I know what drives him and how hard he works when he has set himself a goal. He's not thinking about his reputation for a single second, but he will be upset if he does not manage to race according to his own expectations,” added the 41-year old Fin.

However, he made it very clear that the 7-time world champion will have a hard time getting up to speed in the series, as Formula One moves so rapidly that it hardly gives you any time to catch your breath these days.

“It will be difficult for him. Formula 1 will not give him any time; it knows no mercy and allows you no excuses,” added Hakkinen.

Former triple world champion Niki Lauda also urged Schumacher to adapt his driving style to the new regulations, especially the narrower front tires introduced by Bridgestone for the 2010 season (this is the main reason Mercedes decided to increase the length of the W01's wheelbase ahead of the Spanish GP).

“He must change his driving style as quickly as possible. The new Formula One with the much narrower front tires obviously surprised him, while Rosberg has had no problems and is doing a sensational job,” said Lauda for Blick newspaper.