Schumacher to retire at end of season, as Hamilton joins Mercedes

Seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher said yesterday he would retire at the end of the season, bringing a definitive close to a stellar career after a less-than-successful comeback.

The 43-year-old, who previously quit the sport in 2006 before returning two years ago, said he decided to call time on racing after it was announced last week that McLaren driver Lewis Hamilton would move to his Mercedes team next year.

Schumacher's decision effectively brings down the curtain on a hugely successful 21-year career in the sport and more than 300 races, during which time he has become one of the world's most recognisable and successful sportsmen.

"I have decided to retire at the end of the season," the German driver said.

"I still feel I am capable of competing against the best but the time sometimes comes to say goodbye and this time it might be forever."

Since the announcement about Hamilton's move, speculation had swirled that Schumacher could continue his career with another team, with Swiss outfit Sauber expressing their interest.

But Schumacher said although he still felt he could compete - and vowed to concentrate on the remaining races this season - he no longer felt the same drive to race on.

Schumacher won 91 races between 1991 and 2006 - two world titles with Benetton in 1994 and 1995 and five consecutive titles with Ferrari from 2000 to 2004.