Schumacher expects thrilling F1 finale - doesn't regret retirement

Oct 18, 2007, 15:47 GMT

Hamburg - Michael Schumacher expects a thrilling Formula One title battle on Sunday in Brazil from which he hopes Kimi Raikkonen of his former Ferrari team to emerge victorious.

'The world championship finale in Brazil will be a great battle ... I'm sure it's going to be a thrilling race - just like the whole year has been, in my opinion, an extremely exciting championship,' said the ex-champion Schumacher on his website on Thursday.

One year after Schumacher's retirement, McLaren rookie Lewis Hamilton leads the way into the season-ending Brazilian GP with 107 points from bitter team rival Fernando Alonso (103) and Ferrari's Raikkonen.

Schumacher said he was quite happy to watch the race from home and that he will be siding with Raikkonen, whom he beat for the 2003 title before the Finn took his place at Ferrari this year.

'I can well think back to the tension a weekend like this one means to the driver, and to be honest I am quite happy to be watching the race from my sofa at home this time.

'Not only as a fan but more so as a driver you dream of a big fight like this, and it goes without saying that I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Kimi and our team,' said Schumacher.

'I was happy to see that no matter what happened we always remained competitive and consistent, despite all the changes within the team and the technical problems we were facing sometimes. The guys have done a great job.'

Schumacher reiterated that he had no regrets quitting last year - as the most successful driver ever with seven world titles, 91 race wins, 68 pole positions and further records. He now works as an advisor for Ferrari and enjoys more time with his family.

'It's now been a full year since I drove my last race and, looking back on that final day in Interlagos, I've got some very good memories that have stayed with me.

'But all in all, as I've said so many times before, my family and I feel wonderful with the life that we have nowadays,' said Schumacher.