Michael Schumacher 'like a kid at Christmas' ahead of F1 season

MICHAEL SCHUMACHER feels "like a child looking forward to Christmas" such is his enthusiasm for his return to Formula One.

The new season is now just a week away, with next Friday marking the opening two practice sessions for the Bahrain Grand Prix.

That is when the battle will begin in earnest, with the phoney war of the last few weeks in pre-season testing behind the teams.

For Schumacher, who confirmed just prior to Christmas that he was ending three years in retirement and making a comeback at the age of 41, it is also when his reputation will be back on the line.

"Finally the season will start," said the seven-times world champion.

"The decision to make my comeback feels like a long time ago now and I can hardly wait for the season to get under way in Bahrain.

"It's funny to think I will be competing in Formula One again when, just a few months ago, I would have categorically declined the opportunity.

"But sometimes things change and the right circumstances come together. Now I feel fresher than I have for many years."