Michael Schumacher’s progress during the second practice session at the Circuit of the Americas was hampered slightly by a puncture, which slightly affected his plans for the remainder of the session. Despite this minor setback, the German legend completed a productive day at the track in preparation for Sunday’s United States Grand Prix.
The seven-time World Champion is the most successful driver at the United States Grand Prix, having won the race a record five times throughout his immensely successful career. Upon the sports return to the country after an absence of five years, Michael Schumacher is now preparing to once again retire from the sport. His place at the Mercedes outfit will be taken by Lewis Hamilton, with the German understandably eager to finish his return to the sport in fine form.
Despite a tricky opening day of practice at the new Circuit of the Americas, Michael Schumacher is remaining confident ahead of qualifying and the race. The track was initially very green at the start of the day, and only improved a little as the day progressed. Although the German’s preparations during the second practice session were hampered slightly due to a puncture, Schumacher was still able to complete 55 laps throughout the day.
“The track is still very green, especially offline, but it delivers lots of potential for a good show.” Explained Michael Schumacher, “As for our programme today, we had some tyre issues in the second session with a puncture which affected our plan a little. However, I will just try to do my best tomorrow and in the race on Sunday.”
Michael Schumacher ended the two opening practice sessions 17th and 10th fastest respectively, slightly slower than team-mate Nico Rosberg who ended the day 9th and 7th respectively. Both Schumacher and Rosberg are more confident that a competitive race is on the cards this weekend, after slight improvements with the car since the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last time out which saw neither Rosberg nor Schumacher finish in the points.
Follow me on Twitter - @AndyYoungF1