Grapevine: Schumacher to Vote for First Time

Five-time World Champion Michael Schumacher will vote in the German general election for the first time in his life next Sunday after previously abstaining.

Schumacher, who finished second to Ferrari teammate Rubens Barrichello at the Italian Grand Prix yesterday, said that the state of the German economy has persuaded him to vote after he revealed earlier this year that he had never done it before.

"I must say, to be honest, that I have never voted," Schumacher said back in April. "The eternal discussions between the government and the opposition are just a show for the media. Bringing convincing solutions to problems that do exist comes second."

Back then Schumacher was criticised by German magazine Bild, who wrote in a front page story: "Should a big sports idol and an example for millions talk about boycotting elections?".

However, the 33-year-old, who has a home in Switzerland as well as Germany, has changed his mind.

"The economic situation and the high rate of unemployment have really made me think," he told Bild this week. "In a democracy you shouldn't abstain from voting. I now see things more clearly. I've realised that every vote counts, including mine."