Ralf Schumacher 'ready' for F1 return

Ralf Schumacher has confirmed reports that he would like to return to the Formula One grid.

An unnamed source close to the 34-year-old German has told Bild newspaper that Schumacher, the younger brother of seven time world champion Michael, turned down an offer from one of F1's new teams for 2010.

But Ralf confirms that if a more attractive offer was to materialise, he is ready to give up his Mercedes seat in the German touring car series DTM.

"I have noticed that the Formula One fire is once again burning within me," he told the newspaper.

"I can understand Michael's decision 100 per cent and I would not have hesitated for a second. You can't stop the passion: racing was and is our life and we have always looked for challenges."

Schumacher was asked why he turned down the reported offer for 2010.

"The challenge must be the right one," answered the winner of 6 grands prix, who admits his reputation was damaged by his stint with Toyota that ended two years ago.

"There is no point signing a second-best contract, and it's not about the money but whether together we would be able to achieve something," Ralf added.

Bild mentioned Sauber, Renault and Toro Rosso as potential options for Ralf Schumacher that have been discussed internally by those teams.

"For me the Toyota years are in the past. I know what I can do and I feel good and ready," he said.