Michael Schumacher will not race in Valencia
Michael Schumacher has decided to call off his Formula One comeback. Luca Badoer will replace Felipe Massa for the European GP in Valencia. In the statement published on his website Schumacher explained that the persisting neck problems are the reason behind the cancellation of his F1 come back:
“Yesterday evening, I had to inform Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo and team principal Stefano Domenicali that unfortunately I’m not able to step in for Felipe.
I really tried everything to make that temporary comeback possible, however, much to my regret it didn’t work out. Unfortunately we did not manage to get a grip on the pain in the neck which occurred after the private F1-day in Mugello, even if medically or therapeutically we tried everything possible.
The consequences of the injuries caused by the bike-accident in February, fractures in the area of head and neck, unfortunately have turned out to be still too severe. That is why my neck cannot stand the extreme stresses caused by Formula 1 yet. These are the clear results of the examinations we did on the course of the past two weeks and the final examination yesterday afternoon. As there were no improvements after the day in Mugello, I decided at short notice on Sunday to do that thorough examination already yesterday.I am disappointed to the core. I am awfully sorry for the guys of Ferrari and for all the fans which crossed fingers for me. I can only repeat that I tried everything that was within my power. All I can do now is to keep my fingers crossed for the whole team for the coming races.”
Ferrari already announced that their reserve driver Luca Badoer will take Massa’s place in Valencia.
Photo: F1Wolf
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That’s an important kick to the eg… for the European GP organizers. Bad luck that we won’t see the Kaiser running an F1 for a while… But YouTube videos are already something interesting
He’s still looking pretty fast!
I think same can apply to all other remaining 2009 GPs. they will have to find some other attraction. and in Valencia they have to hope that Alonso will be allowed to race …
Did you believe that Schumacher was going to race more than just one race? I think as soon as Massa is fit, Badoer will have to leave his seat to him.
well Massa probably will not be back that soon. I don’t think he will return this season …
I almost bought a ticket to Spain!! phew!!
Spain is great place to visit, even Valencia, despite the race being a bit of a bore last year:
My experience in Valencia – click here
I didn’t realize he had broken his neck in that motor bike wreck. What a huge turn of events. I had heard he couldn’t pass the physical and wasn’t going to be able to race in F1 a week ago.
Long term, I think putting Luca in the car will help Ferrari more than having Schumi. He will be able to get a good feel for the car in race trim which should provide Ferrari a boost in off season testing.
I don’t think there was much talk about the full extent of his injury until few days ago …