Norbert Haug, Mercedes-Benz's Vice President for Motorsport, is convinced that Michael Schumacher will be able to return to his winning ways once the silver arrow car improves in terms of raw pace. So far in his comeback season, the 7-time World Champion has been out-qualified and out-raced by team-mate Nico Rosberg.
Having finished sixth in Bahrain, Schumacher climbed back to tenth in Australia after a first-lap collision and extra pit-stop although a lost wheel nut resulted in retirement at Sepang last weekend. However, Haug is highly pleased with the German driver's own performances.
"Very satisfied," Norbert told Germany's Bild. "Michael is working well with the team and brings his experience into it. He is not the reason his results have not been better so far - he could have already looked dazzling in his second race (Australia) had Alonso - by no fault of his own - run into him at the first corner."
With knee-jerk reactions commonplace in any sport, Haug advices all not to jump the gun when it comes to making opinions. "The true fans are experts and know exactly what has happened so far," he continued. "Two of Michael's races have gone against him and that was completely beyond his control, thus creating the points deficit. Having said that, a huge compliment goes out to Nico because he has done the best job so far."
Norbert also denies claims that Schumacher may not remain in the sport until the end of his current 3-year contract: "I know that Michael is highly motivated and wants to make his comeback long-term and with long-term success. He knows what he wants and knows what he can do; we also know it - he has crystal clear ideas and enjoys his job.
"Once our car can do it, Michael will always be able to do it."
Also on Friday: Schumacher: Everything according to plan
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