Schumacher calls off Ferrari return

Michael Schumacher's much-heralded Formula One comeback will not, after all, be happening. The 40-year-old German, who won the driver's championship seven times over the course of a stellar career, was due to deputise for Ferrari driver Felipe Massa at the European Grand Prix in Valencia on August 23. But a nagging neck problem, reported last week by The First Post, has put paid to his plans.

It seems the injuries date back to a motorbike accident in February. "The consequences of the injuries caused by the bike accident, fractures in the area of head and neck, unfortunately have turned out to be still too severe," Schumacher said on his website. "That is why my neck cannot stand the extreme stresses caused by F1 yet."

Schumacher, who drove for Benetton and Ferrari during his years as a champion, came first in a record 91 Grand Prix races. "I am disappointed to the core," he said about having to pull out of the Valencia race. "I am awfully sorry for the guys of Ferrari and for all the fans which crossed fingers for me. I can only repeat that I tried everything that was within my power."

Ferrari have named their long-standing staffer Luca Badoer in the German's stead, saying: "We have decided to give Luca the chance to race for the Scuderia after he has put in so many years of hard work as a test driver." The 38-year-old Badoer quit racing a decade ago, having scored no points in his 48 starts for Lola, Minardi and Forti Course. ·