Not long after some were calling time on Michael Schumacher’s poor comeback, the seven time world champion raced almost to the podium in the chaotic Canadian grand prix.
“That’s sport; the situation changes quickly,” said Mercedes’ motor racing vice-president Norbert Haug.

“It showed he can still do a good job if we can give him the right car,” the German is quoted by Italy’s Tuttosport.

Haug told L’Equipe: “It’s like what happened with his brother Ralf in DTM. He had a lot of criticism but is now doing good results.”

Indeed, during the weekend at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve rumours abounded that Schumacher, 42, was set to sign a two-year extension to his current contract, which is set to expire at the end of next season.

The rumours were based on the German’s claim that it will probably be after 2012 that Mercedes will reap the benefits of the groundwork being laid now.

“I heard the speculation and it was an interpretation of my comments,” said Schumacher. “I still have the three seasons to complete and will decide my future soon also on the basis of the results.”

Also on his “five years” comments, L’Equipe quoted Schumacher as saying: “It (a contract extension) is not what I meant.

“At the right time we will talk about the future.”

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo said he had noted Schumacher’s performance in Canada, in which he came the closest so far to securing a comeback podium.

“I find it incredible that in a year in a half he has failed to do so,” the Italian told Sky Sports 24.

“I was pleased to see him up there and do not forget all that he gave to us,” said Montezemolo.