Michael Schumacher rejects Lotus offer to return to Formula 1 for finaltwo races

Here's looking at Schu: Michael Schumacher isn't returning to the sport

Michael Schumacher turned down the chance to return to Formula 1 with Lotus. A spokeswoman for the seven-times world champion said he was happy in his new life and would not be taking the seat vacated as Kimi Raikkonen has back surgery.

Instead the second Lotus cockpit is to go to former McLaren racer Heikki Kovalainen. The Finn has been released by rivals Caterham after lengthy talks. Lotus’ first choice, Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg, either turned down the chance to switch teams for the final two races of the season or was blocked by his Sauber bosses.

Refusing to comment on contractual problems between the Swiss-based operation and the German racer a Sauber spokesman said there was no question Hulkenberg would see out the season with them.

On Wednesday Sabine Kehm revealed the legendary German driver, who only retired at the end of last season, would not be coming out of retirement a second time.

Kehm told Germany’s Bild newspaper: “There have been quite a few requests in the past.

"Michael would still be fit enough but he has a new life. I don't find it unusual that people ask.

"Many people changed their assessment about Michael because of Nico Rosberg's recent performances compared to those of Lewis Hamilton.

"Michael drove as well as Nico, just as Nico is driving as well as Lewis."