Finally it’s official. After months of speculation Michael Schumacher announced during today’s post-race press conference that he will retire from Formula 1 at the end of this season. Schumacher thanked his family, friends and teams past and present.
Although widely predicted, this confirmation of Schumacher’s decision will allow Ferrari to firm up their plans for the future. Currently Felipe Massa does not have a contract beyond the end of this year and Schumacher’s replacement–most likely Kimi Raikkonen–has not been announced. If Ferrari had waited much longer it is possible that these drivers might have got tired of waiting and found alternative positions for next year.