Norbert Haug has passed up an opportunity to clearly rule out speculation
that Michael Schumacher is set to make a sensational return to full time
Formula One racing.
Amid intense speculation that the almost 41-year-old will join Nico Rosberg
in an all-German 2010 lineup for Mercedes GP, the marque's competition
director said: "You might be surprised.
"I'm pretty sure you and your readers will like our choice," Haug told
Germany's Bild am Sonntag newspaper.
When asked specifically about the Schumacher rumours, he added: "There is
always speculation in this sport, especially when cockpits have not yet
been filled.
"And there are dreams, and that's a good thing. Fulfilling these dreams
is another thing."
When told by the Sunday newspaper that German fans are expecting a German
superteam, Haug added: "You seem to know more than I do. And with all due
respect, I don't think so."
Haug was also asked about rumours linking Adrian Sutil with a Mercedes
seat, and he answered: "We have agreed confidentiality with all the
drivers with whom we are speaking."
Also on Sunday, F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone played down the
prospect of a return for Schumacher, the most successful driver in the
history of the sport.
"It's most unlikely," he said on BBC radio Five Live's Sportsweek. "I
don't see any reason why he should (return) and I have not heard anything
at all.
"I would be very doubtful," the 79-year-old added.
Schumacher's official spokeswoman Sabine Kehm said: "There are no
negotiations going on."
