Schumacher at the wheel of the F60?

Michael Schumacher, 40, tested this Friday on the Mugello circuit. But it was at the wheel of the car version 2007 of Ferrari, who really wants the German to be able to drive the F60 before the European Grand Prix. The FIA ​​having banned private testing during the year on single-seaters used in racing, in order to limit costs and developments, this scenario should not be possible. But Ferrari asked for indulgence from the other teams, so that the seven-time world champion could get used to a car with many specificities.

A first reaction, that of Norbert Haug, boss of Mercedes Motorsport, was not long in coming. Michael Schumacher?s compatriot revealed to Autosport that he would not understand a testing ban on the F60. “ His teammate has thousands of miles behind the wheel of this car, and he has none. This is an exception. If Michael had said he would come back provided he could test the car, everyone would have said yes. »

But, if Michael Schumacher benefits from an exception, many other drivers could benefit too. The young Jaime Alguersuari, who arrived in Formula 1 recently, could also have been granted an exemption, only having the right to carry out straight line tests. But the testing ban led the young Spaniard to set his first lap times with the STR4 during his first race weekend. “ Giving Jaime a test would have been justified, adds Norbert Haug. But that said, I don't think there was an official request. »

With less than three weeks before the European Grand Prix, Michael Schumacher hopes to be able to drive the F60 as soon as possible. For Norbert Haug, the paddock must manage to grant these tests to the seven-time world champion. “ What we can do to help him, we will do. I think that's fair. As we are reasonable people, why would we forbid him from these tests? »