Schumacher sends mixed messages about F1 future

Michael Schumacher has sent out a confusing message amid reports he is set to extend his Mercedes contract for two more years.

The seven time world champion’s current deal runs out next year, but he said earlier in Montreal that he needs more time to bring success to the Brackley based team.

"Red Bull needed four or five years. With Ferrari that period lasted for five years. We can not play with some magic," he reportedly said.

That triggered widespread reports that Schumacher is preparing to commit until at least the end of 2014.

But the Cologne newspaper Express quotes him as saying: "I will fulfil my three-year contract and then become a brand ambassador for Mercedes."