Lauda backs early Schumacher return

The Austrian, who returned to F1 racing just five weeks after suffering terrible burns in a crash, claims Schumacher should not stay at home any longer than necessary.

'It is the normal professional approach to get back as quickly as possible, although he should only race when he is fit.'

When he does return, Lauda believes the German will be as fast as ever.

'When he has completely recovered, there is no reason for him not to rediscover his confidence with high speed and go back to being the man to beat in F1.

'He knows he didn't make a mistake, which is good psychologically. Technical problems [like his brake failure] can be fixed.'

Schumacher is said to planning to make his comeback in time for Ferrari's home grand prix at Monza on September 12.

However, his rehabilitation programme did suffer a setback after doctors told the German he would need another operation on his broken right leg.

Last weekend, doctors removed the screws from his leg under local anaesthetic, leaving a 30cm plate inside his tibia.