Schumacher makes F1 return, in the pit

BERLIN: Michael Schumacher will make his first appearance at a Formula One race since his retirement last season at this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix, it was revealed on Thursday.   

The seven-time world champion now works as an advisor to the Ferrari team and will be in his former team's pit in Barcelona for Sunday's race, but is said to be keen to avoid the limelight.   

Schumacher's spokeswoman Sabine Kehm told German newspaper Bild: "He might sit on the pit wall, but Michael does not want to interfere with the racing. His only function will be advisory."   

Ferrari's Brazilian driver Filipe Massa welcomed the news that his former team-mate will be in attendance and is keen to show the living-legend what he has learned from their time together.   

"I'm very happy he is back, and he will surely be able to give us an extra boost and enthusiasm," Massa said.   

"Personally, I owe Michael a lot. In the year we were together he taught me many things. I've improved also thanks to him and I'll do my best to show him that."   

Meanwhile the last car Michael Schumacher raced in is set to go under the hammer next week.   

The F1 248 Schumacher drove at last year's Brazilian Grand Prix is one of a crop of legendary cars which Ferrari will auction on May 20, as part of their 60th anniversary celebrations.   

The car is expected to raise more than six millions euros.