Schumacher Back In Harness.

Michael Schumacher will return to the cockpit of his F399 at Mugello today, sparking rumours that he will be back in action at the Belgian Grand Prix next weekend.


The German underwent a regular medical examination of his broken leg yesterday [Friday], and was pronounced fit enough to attempt a few laps at Mugello today. Schumacher will join regular team-mate Eddie Irvine and substitute Mika Salo at the Italian circuit to see whether he will be ready for Spa next Sunday. Schumacher's doctors and members of the Ferrari team - and even Schumacher himself - have said the Italian Grand Prix is the most likely time for a racing return but, with an earlier-than-expected return to the cockpit, Belgium is now being touted as a distinct possibility, although the team refuses to be drawn on the subject.


"From today's [medical] test, it emerged that [Schumacher]'s physical condition is good enough to allow him to drive some circuits of the Mugello track at the wheel of the F399," said an official Ferrari statement, "This will take place [on Friday]."