Schumacher soon back in business?

The arrival of the Formula 1 on the old continent seems to do it the greatest good, as do the developments made to the W01 since Barcelona. In fact, the latter were intended in particular to adapt somewhat the behavior of the Silver Arrow to the German's piloting. The objective seems to have been achieved. For a few races, Michael Schumacher took over his young and no less talented teammate Nico Rosberg. Fourth in Spain at the start of May, Schumi was on course to finish seventh (or sixth?) in Monaco, before finishing fourth last weekend in Turkey. An encouraging series, which will allow the pilot Mercedes approach the rest of the season with a little more optimism.

“My race started as I hoped when I was able to catch Button just after the start, says the seven-time world champion. Unfortunately, my tires did not offer me enough grip, because the formation lap was slow and the pressures therefore dropped again, which, combined with the top speed of the McLaren, meant that I was not able to keep Jenson behind me. I even had to fight throughout the first lap to keep the car on the track. From there I was in my initial position and when Sebastian dropped out we moved up a place. It was a relatively easy race for me, with few opportunities. From what I understand, the race at the front was quite eventful, which is good for the show and the fans. Overall, this ordeal has been positive for us and we have clearly taken a step towards Red Bull and we are ahead Ferrari, we can be satisfied.”

Indeed, the two Mercedes finished the seventh round of the season ahead of the Ferraris and the Renault. However, during a good part of the race, the cars of the Scuderia and the French team seemed faster than the W01s, without being able to take the advantage. The star firm has progressed, that’s for sure. But the gap with McLaren and Red Bull still seems significant. RB6s and MP4-25s seem unattainable at the moment. As for Michael Schumacher, his clear recovery must delight his fans. Schumi is on the verge of returning to the forefront. When will we return to the podium of a Grand Prix?

Find the full report of this Turkish Grand Prix in your AUTOhebdo magazine, on newsstands tomorrow.