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Testing ban hurting Schumacher

Michael Schumacher: "In the past we did a lot of testing. Today not, so I have had some problems with the tyres" © Getty Images

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Michael Schumacher said that his comeback hasn't been so successful because of the lack of in-season testing in Formula One.

Schumacher returned to the sport at the start of 2010 following a three-year absence, but has yet to stand on the podium. Although the Mercedes has not been quick enough to challenge for race wins, Nico Rosberg has scored three podiums in that time and has beaten his team-mate in both seasons so far. Schumacher admitted that he thought he would be more successful when he returned, but said that the lack of testing means he struggles to get on top of the tyres.

"Some have questioned whether my mood has changed. It would be nice if outsiders didn't make guesses without knowing," Schumacher told Corriere della Sera. "I thought that I might be (on the podium) at least a couple of times. Together we have to work hard to improve performance but we are not afraid of that.

"In F1 there are no magic wands. In the past we did a lot of testing. Today not, so I have had some problems with the tyres. I have not learned how to interpret them correctly. Previously I came to the race weekend knowing what was coming. Now the tests don't come until Friday and I am still getting used to this system."

Despite his problems, 2011 was a clear improvement for Schumacher - whose contract runs out at the end of 2012 - and he's yet to rule out an extension to his deal.

"Will I be here in 2013? There is no hurry yet to think about it."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.