Norbert Haug has played down claims Mercedes would only retain Michael Schumacher beyond 2012 with a cut-price deal.<\/p>\n
Haug was quoted in Germany last weekend that the marque will ink a new deal for 2013 “with pleasure” but only if the price is right.<\/p>\n
“This was a reader’s question in a live chat that I gave last Saturday and the wink was not broadcast live,” Haug explained to the SID news agency.<\/p>\n
Haug said the “wink” was a reference to the remark about price, not Mercedes’ willingness to discuss Schumacher’s future beyond 2012.<\/p>\n
“We are very pleased with Michael and very proud of his skill and experience,” he insisted.<\/p>\n
“And if he wants to carry on in formula one after 2012, we will very happily speak with him about it,” added Haug.<\/p>\n
After the disappointment of Schumacher’s F1 return last year, he said there is “no doubt” the 42-year-old is still a top driver.<\/p>\n
“Most drivers during the test in Barcelona practiced a qualifying lap,” said Haug when asked about Schumacher’s best time of the week in the updated W02.<\/p>\n
“One or two in the field could probably have gone faster, but probably he (Schumacher) and Nico Rosberg could have as well,” he insisted.<\/p>\n
“We have no doubt that Michael Schumacher is still absolutely competitive.”<\/p>\n
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