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Superstitious Schumacher given Nico's number

Even numbers have never been lucky for Michael Schumacher © Sutton Images

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• Drivers:
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Michael Schumacher has been allowed to switch race numbers with team-mate Nico Rosberg for this season.

Mercedes GP's first signing was Rosberg, and as such he was entered with the FIA under the No.3. This meant that Schumacher was due to take No.4, but a Mercedes spokeswoman confirmed the team and the FIA have approved the switch.

"Michael has a preference for odd numbers," she said. "He asked if he could be the odd number and we were happy to accept."

Odd numbers certainly seem to be lucky for him as he won all seven of his world championships racing odd numbered cars: once driving cars bearing No.3 and No.5 and five times in car No.1.

A car bearing the No.4 has never won the title, and in the last ten years has only recorded seven grand prix wins.

Schumacher is also sure he is fully fit for the challenge ahead. In an interview on his official website he denied reports that the neck injury that halted last year's comeback could be an issue.

"The after-effects of that accident are long gone, that's why I was sure that the neck would not cause any problems," he said." This was one year ago, that's over. I am training since December very carefully and feel extremely fresh and fit. That was one of the reasons why I felt so good in the car in Jerez [for his recent GP2 test]. But then, Formula One is another thing, the G-forces are higher, that's not really comparable. That is why I am looking forward so much to testing in February. Only then the old feeling will be completely back. I can't wait to be back there."

Mercedes plans to reveal the colour scheme of its 2010 car in Germany on Monday, although the new car will not be seen until testing begins in Valencia on February 1.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.