Michael Schumacher Tests GP2 Development Car Ahead of F1 Return

Michael Schumacher's return to Formula One is picking up speed after the seven-time world champion completed a test day in a GP2 car.

With limited winter testing ahead of the 2010 F1 season, Schumacher signed up to assist the development of the 2011-13 GP2 car at Jerez.

There are already complaints that the Mercedes GP driver is gaining an unfair advantage over competitors by testing the GP2 car over three days, but I can't imagine it being too difficult for any F1 team to get their hands on one.

A number of the established F1 teams have partnerships or links to GP2 teams in some way, and the Series itself were wise to get Schumacher on board to help with future developments.

The conditions were far from favourable for the German with heavy wind, and a lot of rain, but when has that ever been too much of a problem for him?

In all, Schumacher completed 52 laps on his first day testing several set-up solutions for the GP2 series, tried out slicks, but the conditions prevented him from managing a serious run with them with the session ending early.

Weather permitting he will continue to test for two more days this week.

Speaking on his website, he said, "Today was good, especially because after a long time I could drive again in a car that came close to a current Formula One car.

"Despite the weather not being what we all would have liked all my senses were nevertheless on full alert. This alone was worth it.

"I felt comfortable out on the track from the very beginning, and naturally I'd like to thank our team and the GP2 Series very much for the opportunity to drive."

The first F1 test takes place at Valencia on February 1-3.