Schumacher's Formula 1 return

Ferrari has admitted that Michael Schumacher will return to Formula 1 this season.

Rumours had been rife that the seven-times world F1 champion would fill the empty space left by Felipe Massa after the freak crash at the weekend which put him in a critical condition and effectively ended his 2009 campaign.

In a short statement, the team said ‘Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro intends to put Michael Schumacher in Felipe Massa's car until the Brazilian driver will be able to race again. Michael Schumacher said he is ready and, over the next few days, will undertake a specific training programme at the end of which confirmation will be given of his participation in the Championship with effect from the European Grand Prix on the 23rd of August'.

Massa's condition has improved markedly in recent days, and he is now speaking, sitting upright and taking his first steps. He is due to leave intensive care soon and his personal doctor is hugely positive - 'I have no doubt Felipe will race again'. When that will be remains unclear.