Michael Schumacher insisted yesterday he did not regret returning to Formula One despite a disappointing 2010, finishing ninth for Mercedes behind Sebastian Vettel in the drivers’ title race.
The seven-time former world champion admitted in an interview published on his official website that the season had been “a big challenge” and that in terms of results “we clearly did not meet our expectations”.
The German 41-year-old continued: “But then, you have to fight for the things you want to achieve, which has always been my credo. Mercedes, the whole team, me – we are working together to build something great.
“Not being an easy process makes the challenge more exciting. I think I have proved over many years that I love challenges and that I am able to handle them. I have not regretted my decision to come back at all.”
Schumacher mustered 72 points, almost half the tally attained by his younger team-mate Nico Rosberg, and was the target of some criticism, which he said he was taking in good spirits.
“That is okay for me, and I haven’t looked good all the time either. I can live with criticism very well. What is much more important is that I deeply enjoy building what we are building here at this team and that is always the best base for success because you do not need to question the motivation.
“And please don’t get me wrong here; you don’t question the seriousness either. I can’t wait already to get the new season started.”
Despite his advanced years the motor racing legend said he was itching for the 2011 season to start.
“Yes, I look forward to some quiet days with my family over Christmas but I also notice that I am going all tingly already thinking about next year.
“We ended the season with a positive feeling and things were starting to come together with a tendency that was clearly positive.”
Despite his modest showing on his comeback he stated winning the F1 title was still Mercedes’ objective.
“Fighting for the world championship is still our goal, it can only be like this,” he said.
“Hey, we are Mercedes! But this is a three-year project, and even if obviously it would be nicer if it worked out sooner, we are talking about competing at the absolute peak of motorsport.”