From GP2 press office

In preparation for his much-awaited return to Formula 1 next season with Mercedes GP Petronas, Michael Schumacher will take part in a three-day GP2 Series test session in Jerez, Spain this week.

Following the approval of the FIA, the GP2 Series and the Formula 1 Testing Committee, Michael will drive the GP2 development car for three days from Tuesday 12 January to Thursday 14 January.

Michael’s desire to drive a high-performance competition vehicle as part of his preparations has found a match in the objectives of the GP2 Series to develop the 2011/2013 car.

As GP2 are currently defining the technical features of the Series’ third generation car which will debut in Spring 2011, the Series organisers saw a fantastic opportunity to benefit from Michael’s experience and his legendary technical abilities.

On the other hand, GMM reports that Germany's Bild newspaper said Michael Schumacher reportedly saved about 700,000 euros by negotiating his return to formula one in 2010 without the involvement of long-time manager Willi Weber.

"I am now old enough to take care of a few things for myself," Schumacher is quoted as saying.

The result is that the winner of a record 91 grands prix did not have to pay his usual 10 per cent commission to Weber, therefore saving about 700,000 euros this year alone.

In late December, Weber denied that he is no longer Schumacher's manager.

Bild said Weber will work on attracting more sponsors for Schumacher, whose existing commercial deals are reported to have already nearly quadrupled his 7 million euros Mercedes retainer for 2010.




Photo Credit : GP2 Series