Schumacher under fire from press

Michael Schumacher may have had, by his standards, a poor start to this season but it would seem presumptive to think that the German will not be bouncing back. Two races does not a championship make and undoubtedly Ferrari will be fighting all the way.

However, Schumacher is coming in for some harsh criticism by the media and manager Willi Weber says the press are doing their best to make Michael unhappy in his work.

In the Italian press Schumacher was slated as a bully after the second corner incident at Sepang, while Germany was equally snide about its champion, saying he is losing his nerve and labeling him 'Dumi', the German for 'stupid'.

Weber said that Schumacher has not yet discussed the offer from Ferrari to renew his contract after 2004 and the criticism could make him think about retirement.

"It's possible that Michael will hang up his helmet if he's not enjoying racing," he told the British press. "People are doing everything to make him dislike his job and Michael has not asked me to talk to Ferrari even though we are running late."

No-one likes criticism but it seems strange that a consummate professional such as Michael would let a few harsh words colour his judgement about his future. However, for a man who was not so long ago the hero of Germany and Italy for his and Ferrari's string of titles, it must be unpleasant to be the current villain.

But bad enough to make him retire? Some will be hoping…..

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