New Delhi: All the excitement seven-times former Formula One champion Michael Schumacher generated when he announced his comeback has been doused by the disappointment following his decision not to race.
Even as critics and Formula One drivers debate on whether Schumacher could have become fit in time for the European Grand Prix, many still wonder at what could have been the greatest comeback in F1 history.
Schumacher on Monday said he was sorry that his neck would not hold up long enough to race for Ferrari again. Before deciding against reviving his F1 career the seven-time world champion had tried just about everything - from training hard to driving go karts.
"He has simply failed due to his motorcycling injuries. He has tried everything to get it under control, according to his personal statements. And unfortunately, his injuries are still not healed in such a way that he's able to drive a Formula One car," triple world F1 champion Niki Lauda said.
The neck is one of the key body parts involved in racing, especially in a circuit as F1. So it was one risk that was definitely not worth taking.
"It is very, very difficult to actually strengthen your neck muscles because not a lot you can do for it apart from driving a race car. Obviously Michael has been out of the car for a year and half and those muscles would have just weakened off," said India's GP2 driver Karun Chandhok.
The man who will try and fit Schumacher's big boots in the driver's seat is Luca Badoer, who isn't really the fastest man on the grid.
"The situation where Ferrari had Kimi Raikkonen fighting for the world championship they needed some body as strong back-up. They might have chosen some one different. At this stage of the season and the position they are, they have just gone for the safe option," added Chandok.
Schumacher’s decision has evoked mixed reactions from Formula One fans.
"He quit from sports on the top of his career and I think for him personally it will very likely be better this way," said a fan.
"It's a great pity. A lot of people were looking forward to it. Me too. Would have been a reason to watch Formula One racing again," added another fan.
So the fairy tale return has been put aside but the Prancing Horses will be ready to gallop once again come race day in Valencia.
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