Last month we watched in awe, hope and romance as golf veteran Tom Watson came within inches of wining the British Open, only to be denied and lose heavily in the play-off. The heart said Watson, the head backed Cink. In sport we all love a fairytale story; the minnows triumphing or the glorious return of a legend. Formula 1 thought that it was going to have its own Tom Watson moment, unfortunately for them, that reality is now a distant dream.

When Michael Schumacher retired in 2006 motor racing lost a true legend. Seven times Formula One champion and frequent podium finisher, Schumacher cemented himself in the F1 history books. However just recently many thought he was about to return and re-conquer the sport he so dearly loves. He was planned to come out of retirement to replace the injured Felipe Massa this weekend in a move that was highly anticipated throughout, not just motor racing, but the whole of the sporting world. For everyone who despaired at Tom Watch last month they now had a chance to rejoice for Schumacher. Unfortunately Schumacher will not be returning to Formula 1 it just wasn’t to be and he will instead be replaced by Luca Badoer.

In February of this year, Schumacher was testing a motorbike at the Cartagena circuit in Spain when he sustained an injury to his neck. Despite the injury, Schumacher was reportedly doing extremely well while testing on the 2007 car at Mugello. Out of concern for his health the decision had to be made to cancel his return to Formula 1 but for the racing legend, it was probably not the way he would want to bow out for good.

However, perhaps there is a silver lining in the clouds. Many sports stars some out of retirement and, more often than not, it ends in disappointment and regret. While Watson did not come out of retirement, the story of the old veteran returning to glory days gone by has a certain romance and enthrall to it. Maybe it is best that Michael Schumacher’s return to Formula 1 did not proceed; thankfully we remember him for what he was, an outstanding driver, not someone who didn’t know when to quit.

Tags:f1, ferrari, formula 1, Michael Schumacher