Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone: Mercedes GP's Michael Schumacher still a title contender
The Formula 1 supremo, Bernie Ecclestone is busy prophesying the Formula 1 future. Earlier today (Thursday) he insisted that in another few years, the sport could be run by a female. Now, he predicts that the seven-time World Champion, Michael Schumacher
could win a race very soon, this season.
He believes that if Schumacher’s team, Mercedes GP is able to hand a competitive car to the German, there is no reason why he cannot finish at the top of the podium.
The 80-year-old stated, "I have not the slightest doubt about it. If he (Schumacher) has a competitive car, he's a title contender."
Schumacher, 42, joined the grids last season after a break of three years. Although his return to the track was much hyped, yet, he failed to live up to the expectations. After the abortive comeback, everyone in the race world thought that the driver will
leave now once for all. However, not only did he decide to stay back, but also showed firm determination to bag another Championship.
The first three pre-season test sessions held last month, do not depict a very competitive Mercedes car. Although, both its drivers, Schumacher and Nico Rosberg had been able to mark the fastest laps on one of the practice days, yet, the team was never short
of reliability issues.
However, the team boss, Ross Brawn insisted that the car still has to undergo the final updates and the next practice will see a far better pace.
Ecclestone believes that if the team will be able to hand a car capable of beating the forerunners, the wonders of the “good ol’ Schumi” can be seen on the track, once again.
The Briton said, "Michael is still very motivated and his physical fitness is as good as in his heyday. When you talk to him you feel with every word and every gesture that he wants to win again - more than anything else. If Mercedes gives him a competitive
car, he will win again."
However, the supremo predicted that Red Bull Racing could be the fastest team on the track this year also, while its driver and the reigning World Champion, Sebastian Vettel was still the strongest contender for the title.
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