18/10/2006
NEWS STORY
As Michael Schumacher prepares for his final Formula One Grand Prix, an eighth World Championship seemingly tantalisingly out of reach, Bernie Ecclestone has admitted that the German's achievements will never be matched.
"His record will not be eclipsed," said the Englishman, in an interview with The Times. "Certainly with Ferrari," he continued, "he's the one that drives the team. I'm not sure the other drivers are strong enough, willing enough or put enough into it to do that."
"Michael has given up so much to achieve what he has achieved," he added. "He is dedicated to what he is and puts himself under an awful lot of pressure. He'll win a race and next day start testing."
As the seven-time champion prepares to hang up his helmet, Ecclestone admits that he hopes the German doesn't completely turn his back on Formula One: "I'd like to see him not forget what Formula One's done for him and find a way to pay a little bit back," said the Englishman.