Saturday October 9th, 1999

Michael Schumacher explained today why he changed his decision not to return to racing this season, saying: "The belief that I'd be able to make it has grown bit by bit over the last few days. What was important was seeing how much the team wanted me to be there. I'm not at 100 percent, but I've realised that I have to be there. Obviously, I too wanted to make this comeback, but I had to convince myself, and these practice sessions, first at Mugello and then at Fiorano, gave me the confirmation. And then, there was also the desire to help the team and to help Eddie."

Schumacher also denied speculations that he in fact was fit to race but reluctant to return with no chances for him to win the World Championship. "When I made it known that I wouldn't be in a condition to race, I wasn't bluffing," he said. "I felt good, but it's one thing to go for a walk in the park and it's another to endure a Formula One Grand Prix."