Schumacher sets pace in F1 test
Schumacher has continued his involvement with Ferrari
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Tuesday, 13, Nov 2007 10:23
Seven-times formula one world champion Michael Schumacher registered the fastest lap in testing for Ferrari on a temporary return to the sport.
The German has come out of retirement to help the Italian outfit in their out-of-season research and development and posted the day's best lap on the unofficial timings at Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya.
Schumacher came in at one minute 21.922 seconds ahead of fellow Ferrari test driver Luca Badoer with 1:22.129 and McLaren's Pedro de la Rosa on 1:22.687.
"It looks as though he's got talent. He will make his way to F1," joked former rival David Coulthard.
Schumacher's experience of driving with different car set-ups is being used by Ferrari to help modify their car for next season when new rules are introduced banning electronic driver aids.
Around 3000 spectators turned out to watch the 38-year-old, but his spokesperson earlier insisted that he would continue to disappoint them by refusing any sort of return to the full circuit.
"It's probably a one-off. Michael does not intend at all to go back to F1. He's testing just as part of his contract, which is to help Ferrari in whichever area he can," she told the BBC.
Since retiring as a driver in 2006 Schumacher has been kept on by Ferrari as a technical advisor.