Schumacher in new role

MULTIPLE Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher is to help pick Ferrari’s drivers of the future after the Italian manufacturer confirmed his role for next season.

The German, who won seven F1 titles, has been appointed as ‘super-assistant’ to Ferrari’s chief executive officer Jean Todt.

Schumacher, who retired at last weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix, will help Todt and also pass on his expertise to newcomer Kimi Raikkonen who will join Felipe Massa at Ferrari after leaving McLaren.

“Michael has always been interested in following young drivers,” Todt said at Ferrari’s end-of-season celebrations.

“Michael is one of the greatest drivers in the history of motor racing. He has a unique knowledge of racing, so we’ll try to take advantage of his knowledge in the best way to take choices for the team at a sporting and technical level.

“He will be an indispensable interface in the process of taking decisions for the future of Ferrari’s sporting arm.

“Finally, as he’s done up to now, he will make his contribution on the definition of the road cars.”

Schumacher admitted his focus would be on his retirement from racing before giving his input into Ferrari’s racing arm.

Schumacher said: “I don’t think right now there is any need to specify in concrete terms exactly how and what I will do.

“Jean has just said what I’m interested in and where Ferrari feel I could be helpful. I’m very happy to be involved in this way but I look forward first of all to get some rest for a few months and then I’ll have a much clearer view on what I’d like to have.

“I’m so happy that Ferrari give me this opportunity. As it’s always been, Ferrari gave me the confidence but also gave me the freedom to reach decisions and come to terms in common agreement. That’s something very unique and now I need a couple of months to get myself clear.”

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo added: “I’m very happy that Michael will continue to work with us and to share our choices and contributing to them.”