BERLIN, July 5 – Seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher revealed on Tuesday that he has slimmed down and was raring to go in his Formula One campaign.
The 40-year-old German will replace injured Felipe Massa in the Ferrari team for the European Grand Prix race in Valencia, Spain, on August 23, and possibly for the rest of the season.
"I’m currently in the midst of my preparations for the upcoming race," Schumacher said on his website.
"I already lost three kilograms even if it is also important to me to build up muscles. So all in all, training is going pretty well. I only have to admit that my neck pinches a bit," said Schumacher, who injured his neck in a motorcycle accident last February.
"We have to get a grip on that as health has priority – that’s the clear arrangement made with Ferrari and, by the way, with my wife, too.
"It’s on! I accepted the challenge. And as you all know, I really love challenges. It seems as if my fans would love them, too," added the German, who retired in 2006.
"I really would like to thank all my fans who keep their fingers crossed for my plans for all the positive feedback.
"It’s incredible how much support I get from all over the world in these days. It almost feels like as if a flush of positive energy is coming over me. Compliments to all of you!"