Schu rumors ’absurd’ says manager

Michael Schumacher

(GMM) Michael Schumacher's manager has slammed as "absurd" suggestions that the retired seven time world champion could be shaping up to return to the formula one cockpit.

The rumors were sparked by Patrick Head, while the Williams co-owner countered speculation that McLaren is hoping to replace Fernando Alonso with Nico Rosberg in 2008.

"Michael's still fit — and probably bored," the Briton told the Mail on Sunday.

But Willi Weber, Schumacher's long time manager, responded: "This is absolutely absurd and wrong.

"Michael has a contract with Ferrari and is doing a job that he likes," the German told the news agency 'sid'.

Schumacher, 38, retired at the end of 2006 after eleven years at Ferrari, and more than fifteen years in total in formula one.

He attended several grands prix this season in his new role as an advisor for the Maranello based team.

Weber continued: "Ferrari is our partner for the coming years. And if he really feels the itch (to race) again, which looks pretty unlikely, then Ferrari will be his only choice."