Spaniard backed to put the skids under Schuey

Michael Schumacher could rue his departure from Ferrari because Fernando Alonso is perfectly placed to beat him to the drivers title again, team boss Stefano Domenicali said yesterday.

Seven-time Formula One world champion Schumacher, 41, has come out of retirement this season to race for Mercedes GP having left his consultancy role at Ferrari, who signed Spaniard Alonso in September.

The former Renault driver beat Schumacher to the 2005 and 2006 titles and Domenicali is confident his new recruit can repeat the feat.

"Let's not forget Fernando is the only driver on the track who in his career has beaten Michael [to the championship]," he said. "Fernando has everything to beat him."

Ferrari fans were upset by Schumacher's exit, especially after he nearly returned for the Italians last season as a temporary replacement for the injured Felipe Massa.

However, a neck injury prevented the German from making a comeback.

"Of course, it is right not to forget that what has happened has left its mark," added Domenicali. "Now we have to turn the page. We have to show Michael that this is a strong team. We want to win.

"We thought of Michael last year because he is an extraordinary and strong driver. But Fernando and Felipe are able to beat him even if Michael is still very strong."

Schumacher is testing a GP2 car in Jerez this week and has caused controversy by wearing a red helmet, like the one he sported during his success at Ferrari.

Keep up with the latest business news from the region with the Emirates Business 24|7 daily newsletter. To subscribe to the newsletter, please click here.

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.