New Merc deal for Schumacher?

Reports in Germany suggest Mercedes want to keep veteran driver

By William Esler.   Last Updated: March 5, 2012 11:40am

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Michael Schumacher: Set to be offered a new-two year deal at Mercedes GP

Sky Bet

Michael Schumacher will reportedly be offered a new two-year contract by Mercedes to keep him in Formula One until the end of the 2014 season.

The seven-time world champion returned to the cockpit in 2010 after three years of retirement, but is yet to return to the podium let alone win a race.

With his current deal set to expire at the end of the season many expected the 43-year-old to retire for a second time, but it seems the Silver Arrows are keen to keep the veteran.

Team boss Ross Brawn told German newspaper BILD: "We will ask Michael first (if he wants to continue), before we ask other candidates.

"But if we can move forward this year, then Michael will certainly be keen on it, to bring in the benefits in the future."

Fighting for victories in 2012 may give the German the incentive to stay in the sport and pursue an eighth title in years to come.

Schumacher added in Bild: "We have strengthened our team. Now I expect that we can improve our pace of development. I'll decide when the time is right."