Michael Schumacher, the seven-time world Formula One champion, is set to make a sensational return to the sport as a replacement for the injured Felipe Massa.

Michael Schumacher is making a return to F1

Schumacher, the most successful driver in the history of the sport, quit F1 at the end of the 2006 season but will now come out of retirement to make a comeback as Massa continues to recover from the injuries he sustained in his accident at the Hungaoring.

Although the idea was originally rubbished, Ferrari have confirmed that Schumacher will come out of retirement to replace Massa - provided he passes a fitness test.

“Ferrari intends to entrust Michael Schumacher with Felipe Massa’s car for as long as the Brazilian driver is not able to race,” a Ferrari statement said.

“Michael Schumacher has shown his willingness and in the next few days he will undergo a specific programme of preparation at the end of which it will be possible to confirm his participation in the championship starting with the European Grand Prix on Aug. 23.”