Ralf Schumacher renews Mercedes DTM contract

It has been confirmed that Ralf Schumacher will remain in German touring car championship the DTM for the 2010 season. Having joined Mercedes for the start of 2008, the brother of Michael had been linked to a Formula 1 return for this year. Although Schumacher Jr, a 6-time Grand Prix winner, had been rumored to desire an F1 comeback in 2010, the 34-year-old German has now confirmed that he will remain in touring cars, with the DTM season set to begin at Hockenheim on 25 April.

"It gives me great pleasure to drive in the DTM, which is partially due to the optimal cooperation with Mercedes-Benz and the HWA team," said Ralf, who last raced in F1 with Toyota at the 2007 Brazilian Grand Prix. "I'm looking forward to a third year in this great championship.

"In 2010, the fans can experience an unprecedented happening – my brother Michael in Formula 1 and myself in the DTM, and both racing for Mercedes-Benz."

"We are all delighted that Ralf will stay with our DTM team for a third season in 2010," added Norbert Haug, Vice President for Mercedes-Benz Motorsport. "Ralf has quickly developed into one of the crowd favorites of the series and I am sure that he can, following his DTM apprenticeship, be a challenger in 2010."