Schumacher determined to continue his F1 career

Click Here For More Info

Seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher has confirmed that he will again return to the racing circuit next season, the third year of a comeback to the sport.

Schumacher had a contractual option to leave the team after this season, Mercedes team boss Ross Brawn told BBC Sport.

Asked whether he would stay on in 2012, Schumacher said it was not even a question. “I am here for an achievement and a fixed target. I always said it was a three-year program and that's what it is."

Although Schumacher struggled last season compared to teammate Nico Rosberg, the two have been more evenly matched this year, and the German legend narrowly missed out on the first podium of his return after an impressive performance in the wet at the Canadian Grand Prix.

Ahead of the British Grand Prix, Schumacher said he was pleased with his progress so far.

"I feel good. In all my first 16 years, I always felt I had improved, maybe in smaller rates than you do initially,” he said. “Naturally I took a while to get back into the habit of the whole working arrangement. That is a lot easier for me now, but I am still learning how to work with the team and to get the car to work for me. I am still not yet at 100 percent, but you might say you never will be."

Ross Brawn even hinted for a possible extension of contract for Michael Schumacher beyond 2012.