Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro confirmed on Wednesday their intent to put Michael Schumacher in Felipe Massa's Formula One racing contender until such time that the Brazilian driver will be able to race again.

Although he has been retired for several years, Schumacher has confirmed that he is ready and eager for the challenge and over the next few day he will undertake a specific training program. At the end of this the team will confirm his participation in the Championship with effect from the European Grand Prix on the 23rd of August.

“The most important thing first: thanks God, all news concerning Felipe is positive. I wish him all the best again,” Michael said on his official website. “I was meeting this afternoon with Stefano Domenicali and Luca di Montezemolo and together we decided that I will prepare myself to take the place of Felipe.”

“Though it is true that the Formula 1 chapter has been closed for me for some time and completely, it is also true that for loyalty reasons to the team I cannot ignore the unfortunate situation. But as the competitor I am I also very much look forward to facing this challenge."