06/09/2006
NEWS STORY
German publication Bild is claiming that Michael Schumacher will announce on Sunday that he is to retire at the end of the current season, having contested 250 Grands Prix.
The German publication claims that the German will make the formal announcement at the post-race press conference, should he finish in the first three.
Failing that, he will make public his decision at a special press conference to be held at the Monza circuit at 18.00 (local time) on Sunday evening.
Bild claims there have been a number of clues in recent weeks, pointing to the fact that the German has already made up his mind to retire. These include the claim that should he continue racing with Ferrari he would be partnered with Kimi Raikkonen, and would face "disgrace" if beaten by the Finn. Furthermore, Bild claims that Ross Brawn is to announce his retirement, and that this too has influenced Schumacher's decision.
Another 'clue', according to Bild, is the fact that Felipe Massa won in Turkey, thereby signalling the beginning of a new era, and that Monza, the spiritual home of Ferrari, and its tifosi, is the ideal announcement to make such an announcement.
Mark Webber is also quoted, the Australian claiming that he knew Michael had made up his mind to retire when he saw the German enjoying a couple of (large) beers on Thursday before the German Grand Prix, a unique occurrence, according to the WilliamsF1 driver, who says it was clear Schumacher was relaxed, "as if a large load had been lifted".
Using the Webber 'clue' as an example, visitors to The Marlborough on Tuesday evening will have noticed that Pitpass editor Chris Balfe is on the verge of announcing his retirement… though his "large load" remains.