Manama: Michael Schumacher doesn't
expect the Formula One championship race to be any more
difficult just because several teams are in the running for
the title.
Ferrari, Red Bull, McLaren and Mercedes GP are all
expected to challenge for the title after finishing preseason
testing closely.
"It doesn't really make a difference because in the end it
is just you against one other driver that you have in front of
you that you have to focus (on)," Schumacher said today. "More
teams and drivers? It changes the picture, yes. Does it make
it more difficult? No. I don't think it makes a real
difference."
During preseason testing last month, Schumacher talked
down the German team's chances of victory on Sunday. That
didn't change today as Schumacher focused on the season of
results and not the opening race, where Mercedes is bringing a
major upgrade to its car.
"We hope it's big enough," the German said of the
technical boost. "We'll find out."
Schumacher, who returns after three years in retirement,
is putting familiar rivals like Fernando Alonso and Jenson
Button on the same playing field as the ones he hasn't yet
raced against, such as Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel.
"When I arrived to Formula One my biggest expectation was
far off from what I did because I didn't think I would be able
to play in the same playing field. When I arrived I understood
that they all come from the same water we all do," Schumacher
said.
"They're all humans with special abilities, that I have.
So I will work very hard on (the details), and so will the
other guys, which is why I respect (them), and expect a tough
fight," he said.
Hamilton and Vettel have openly talked about the thrill
of racing the record seven-time champion, who said lining up
against Vettel had piqued his interest.
"It's more the driving, the challenge, whoever it is
there is no particular one," Schumacher said. "I have some
that I hold closer, like Sebastian, some good moments together
... we have a good relationship."
Teammate Nico Rosberg believes he can compete with F1's
most successful driver.
"My aim is to look good compared to my teammate," Rosberg
said. "It doesn't make a difference in terms of making my life
harder and easier" being teammates with Schumacher.
"For sure I have a lot to gain this year because it is
the first time I have a real competitive car. I look forward
to it."
PTI
First Published: Thursday, March 11, 2010, 23:44