F1: Schumacher Wants To Enjoy Swansong Weekend

Formula 1

F1: Schumacher Wants To Enjoy Swansong Weekend

Legend Michael Schumacher is retiring for the second time after Sunday's Brazilian GP...

Adam Cooper | http://www.speedtv.com | Posted November 20, 2012 Balen (BEL)

Michael Schumacher won a record seven World Championships. (Photo: Getty Images)

Michael Schumacher says he’s going to try to enjoy his retirement weekend in Interlagos, having not been able to do so last time around in 2006.

On that occasion, he was involved in a title fight with Fernando Alonso, one that he ultimately lost.

“Interlagos is the right place to round off my career because so much of the fascination of F1 is rooted there,” said the German. “I always enjoy the enthusiasm of the fans, and it's simply a great circuit which has seen many memorable events and always produces spectacular races as the unique layout guarantees plenty of action.

“For me, it's also the circuit that brings back my memories of Ayrton (Senna). My departure from F1 will probably be less emotional for me this time than in 2006, when we were still fighting for the championship and everything was much more intense.

“This time around, I will be able to pay more attention to my farewell and hopefully savor it, too. I have had fantastic years in Formula One and a lot of support from fans around the world, and I wish to particularly thank them for that. Of course, I would be happiest if I could say goodbye with a strong race, and I am sure we will be doing everything we can to make it happen.”

Meanwhile, Mercedes team boss Ross Brawn added: “With the last race of the season in Brazil also bringing Michael's second and final retirement from Formula One, it will be an emotional weekend for everyone in the team. We have both greatly enjoyed and benefitted from working with Michael over the past three years, and I would like to pay tribute to his enduring commitment, passion and team spirit.

“The results that we all hoped for over that period have not come to fruition, however the progress that our team has made has been significant, and I am confident that we will see the rewards in seasons to come. Having worked with Michael for the majority of the 21 seasons of his career, I feel that he is one of the greatest, if not the greatest, Formula One driver of all time, and we wish him the very best with his future plans.”

Adam Cooper notched up his 27th season as a racing journalist in 2011. He has written about F1 for SPEED.com since 2005. Follow him on Twitter.