Ralf Schumacher 'rejected F1 return'

After Michael Schumacher announced he will return to F1 next season, younger brother Ralf has now revealed that he too could have made a comeback next year.

The younger Schumacher left F1 at the end of the 2007 season after losing his drive with Toyota and has since focused on the DTM with Mercedes - albeit with limited success.

According to the German newspaper Bild, Schumacher Jr has offers from the four newcomers - USF1, Lotus, Virgin and Campos - but elected to turn down the proposals.

"I have noticed that the F1 fire is burning in me once again," Schumacher said. "I understand the decision Michael has taken 100 per cent. The passion for F1 does not pass and I would not have hesitated to make the same decision. Racing was, and still is, our life and we have always searched for new challenges.

"The challenge must be the right one," he continued when asked why he had turned down the reported offers for 2010. "It is no use signing a contract that is second best and its not about the money. It is also about whether or not we can achieve something."

Bild also reported that Sauber, Renault and Toro Rosso could be possible options for Schumacher despite the manner in which he exited F1 two years ago, although he insists that those times are now well behind him.

"I know that my reputation suffered during the Toyota years," he said, "but that is behind me now. I know what I can do and I feel good and ready."