Schumacher Hits Zanardi Hype

Michael Schumacher has already begun a war of minds with Williams' signing Alex Zanardi, despite the fact that the Italian has only just started testing for the Grove team.


Schumacher, battling for this season's crown with McLaren's Mika Hakkinen, claimed that Zanardi "would have to learn" when he returns to F1, suggesting that it will not be easy for the twice CART champion to re-adapt to the formula. Zanardi does have previous grand prix experience, having driven for Lotus, Jordan and Minardi in the mid-1990's, but has been warned that F1 cars are not as robust as his Champcar Reynard.


(He shouldn't be in a hurry [to come to F1],) said Schumacher, (I don't know whether he will become great in Europe as well. There are negative examples such as Michael Andretti, but also positive ones like Jacques Villeneuve.)


The remarks are typical of the German, who has become adept at playing mind games with his opponents. The last two title battles have been characterised by Schumacher's digs at rivals, and he now appears to be getting in a few early blows at Zanardi. Whether the Italian, and a recovering Williams team, can challenge Schumacher and Ferrari will only be seen when next season begins in earnest.