(ANSA) - Seven-time world Formula One champion Michael Schumacher denied on Monday he was thinking of moving to McClaren-Mercedes because of his disappointing season with Ferrari.
"Everyone knows how closely linked Ferrari and I are. I won't even comment on the rumors about me leaving the team," the German driver said on his web site.
The current world champion's denial was prompted by a report by the German daily Bild which said he had met twice recently with Mercedes motor sports chief Norbert Haug. Haug told Bild he and Schumacher have met but only to discuss general Formula One affairs.
"I think it's unlikely he'll leave Ferrari," Haug added. Schumacher was forced to drop out of the Turkish Grand Prix on Sunday after a collision with Mark Webber's Williams. Germany's greatest driver ever has a contract with Ferrari until the end of the 2006 season. Until now he has given no indication when he may retire, saying only that he will drive as long as he is motivated. He has won the championship for the last five years in a row.
But he has won only one race this season, the US Grand Prix, which turned into a six-car event after the seven teams using Michelin tires pulled out before the start because their tires were not safe on the American track. Ferrari uses Bridgestone tires.
