F1 - Schumacher is ’helper’ at Mercedes - Briatore

Michael Schumacher should ditch his dreams of adding an eighth title to his unprecedented formula one record.

That is the claim of his former boss Flavio Briatore, who nonetheless said he supports the 42-year-old’s often-criticised return to the grid.

"Michael is a great driver," the former Benetton and Renault boss told Bild newspaper.

"He changed formula one, not just in how to drive the car but how to prepare it and yourself. With his fitness and his discipline he created a new generation of drivers.

"Vettel, Alonso and Rosberg have all followed him," said the flamboyant Italian.

"And it is good for formula one that he came back. If it entertains him and he understands his role as a helper for Mercedes - leading them back to the top - then that’s good," added Briatore.