Schumacher has ‘unilateral option’ to extend contract

Michael Schumacher

(GMM) The extension of Michael Schumacher's contract at Mercedes is the seven time world champion's decision alone.

That is the claim of the German newspaper Die Welt.

"In (F1) industry circles it is said that Schumacher sets the direction," read the report.

"Apparently only he has the unilateral option to renew his contract. So the veteran is unlikely to be rushed into making a hasty decision."

The news puts into context Mercedes' imposition of a six-week deadline for a decision about the 2013 cockpit alongside Nico Rosberg.

"We know it is coming and we have to make a decision soon," team boss Ross Brawn said.

Die Welt's claim also makes sense of team executive Nick Fry's recent assertion that Schumacher's run of bad luck could move the 43-year-old to quit, and his naming of Paul di Resta as an ideal successor.

And Schumacher's manager Sabine Kehm said on Wednesday: "We won't participate in a public discussion about time periods, background or preferences," she told DPA news agency.

"I can only repeat that we will communicate the decision along with the team when it comes."