Michael Schumacher has reportedly admitted he is considering returning to retirement.
Corriere dello Sport said that despite the seven time world champion having a contract for 2012, he might hang up his helmet at the end of this season.
"I arrived at Mercedes with a specific task: not winning at all costs but to grow the team," the 42-year-old is quoted as saying.
"If anything, I am the problem: it is a fact that I am a bit more relaxed than before and I do not know if my mindset is right for this team.
"At some point we will evaluate whether I continue or stop," added Schumacher.
Should the German retire for the second time, Force India’s Paul di Resta is considered the favourite for his Mercedes race seat in 2012.