MADRID — Michael Schumacher’s bid for an eighth world title provides Formula One with one of the most eagerly anticipated championship seasons in history.

Schumacher, who turns 41 in January, announced yesterday he is returning to the sport after three years in retirement to drive for the Mercedes team in 2010.

Schumacher, the sport’s most successful driver with 91 race wins, believes he will be a championship contender again.

Juan Manuel Fangio was F1’s oldest champion at 46, while Giuseppe Farina was 43 when he won in F1’s inaugural 1950 season. Schumacher wants to be next on the list.

“I have no doubt about my ability. My old hunger for racing is back,” Schumacher said. “For me, the imagination to be back in a F1 car and to compete for the world championship is exciting and extremely inspiring. I think the duels on the racetrack will be electrifying.”

They certainly should be, with the new generation of drivers ready to test themselves against a living legend on a starting grid that will incorporate four champions.

McLaren driver Lewis Hamilton, who has emerged as the German’s heir apparent on the track, will get to test himself against the German great.

“It’s brilliant news,” Hamilton said. “I used to watch Michael race when I was in the junior categories, and I always hoped I would be in Formula One while he was still around. I’m now really looking forward to seeing him on the track and back at the top.”

Drivers past and present alike have no doubt that Schumacher will be a force on the track, despite the layoff, with Jackie Stewart and Damon Hill among those welcoming the return.

— Sapa-AP.