Schumacher “show” attracts media frenzy

Michael Schumacher during the F1 drivers photo call

Mar.11 (YF1) It’s very much Grand Prix time in Bahrain as hundreds of media workers have converged on the kingdom to cover the opening round of the 2010 Formula 1 Championship season.

Firing squad of photographers

Veteran F1 journos and snappers were remarking on how many new faces they encountered in the Media Centre, mostly from the mainstream media. The consensus is that the star attraction is Michael Schumacher and his much vaunted comeback has attracted the hoardes eager to cover the “greatest sporting comeback of all time”.

The 41 year old German was the focus of most of the media attention, bordering on frenzy, throughout the day. Adding to his load is the fact that the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC), at their meeting on the day, has appointed the seven times world champion as Drivers’ Representative for the Circuits Commission.

Media gather for Mercedes GP press conference featuring Michael Schumacher

During the manadtory FIA press conference Schumacher said he could not wait for the challenge, with his wife Corinna joining him in Bahrain and fully supportive of his return. “I mentioned when I announced the contract that I felt like a little boy of 12 years. I have grown a little bit since then but not much.”

Of the new generation of F1 superstars Schumi said, “I have the greatest respect for all the other guys that are around. I know I have been very successful and success is lots of details that make it. I will work very hard on those and so do the other guys. That’s why I respect and expect a tough fight.”

Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button (fresh from his Laureus Award success) have also been targeted by journalists, photographers and Tv crews scurrying around in their wake.

Also attracting a fair share of attention was the Hispania Racing garage, which was finally open to show signs of life, with Bruno Senna and Karun Chandhok clearly enjoying their promotion to the big time and handling matters with enthusiasm. Chandhok was granted a super licence to by the WMSC earlier in the day..

Chandhok observed, “Loads of interviews and PR work today, met with lots of old and new faces in the media. Also noticed lots of Indian fans at the pitlane walkabout today.” Print This Article