Haug doubts Schumacher wants F1 role in 2013

Norbert Haug has played down the possibility Michael Schumacher will return to the paddock next year with a prominent F1 role.

The seven time world champion is returning to retirement after a three-year comeback with Mercedes, but had been tipped for a non-driving role at Mercedes.

"There will be talks after the season," Mercedes’ motor racing vice-president Haug told SID news agency.

"However, I don’t think Michael wants a role in formula one.

"He loves our brand and we would count ourselves very lucky if Michael would work with us further in the international sphere for Mercedes.

"There are few sportsmen who are rated as highly as he is, or loved as much. And the roots of his professional career were with Mercedes, just as the end of his active career was as well.

"A further cooperation could not be more authentic," added Haug.

Meanwhile, Haug denied suggestions Mercedes is ramping up its formula one budget to coincide with the arrival of Lewis Hamilton in 2013.

"I don’t know where these rumours come from," said the German.

"That was never the plan, and we never have nor never will complain about having too little money."