Brawn Admits New Schumacher Contract Possible

Ross Brawn on Friday said he can imagine extending Michael Schumacher's contract beyond 2012.

Ross Brawn Team Principal, Mercedes GP, Michael Schumacher, Mercedes GP

Photo by: xpb.cc

Two weeks ago, the Mercedes boss triggered a wave of speculation by revealing that seven time world champion could if he wanted trigger a break clause in his three-year deal at the end of 2011.

But Schumacher, 42, said at Silverstone that he is definitely staying for his third contracted season next year, and Brawn on Friday suggested a contract extension is even possible.

"For us there is no time limit of how long Michael will continue driving," he is quoted by the German news agency SID.

"If we can give him the right car and he continues to enjoy driving and is successful, there is no reason to stop," added the Briton.

"Let's see what happens."

Amid talk Schumacher has chosen to spend his leisurely retirement years on the F1 grid, Brawn insisted the great German is still up to speed.

Asked if the record winner of 91 Grands Prix is still able to win races and titles, he answered: "Yes, I think he is.

"Nothing motivates drivers more than success, and in Montreal he had a bit of a sniff and his performance was fantastic."