Nico Rosberg has revealed he would be happy to have Michael Schumacher as his teammate beyond the 2012 season.
The German’s comments are a clear indication that he intends to sign a new deal beyond the expiry of his own contract.
And Rosberg thinks seven time world champion should do the same.
"Definitely," he is quoted by the German news agency SID. "Of course it’s up to him to decide if he’s still enjoying it but for the team it would be a good thing."
Schumacher, 42, was asked in Singapore at the weekend if he will still be racing in 2013. "Next year I’ll decide," he answered simply.
His boss, Mercedes’ motor racing vice president Norbert Haug, joined Rosberg in hoping Schumacher will stay on board.
"We are very satisfied with the drivers we have," he said. "We want to climb up the ladder with the combination that we have."