Grapevine: Jordan: Schumacher considers team

Renault's future in Formula One has been subject to speculation over the past months, and although the company's CEO Carlos Ghosn said recently the French carmaker plans to stay in the sport in the near future he admitted he would be reviewing the situation constantly.

Speaking in the latest issue of F1 Racing, which is on sale next week, Jordan said he understands the idea of setting up their own team is being discussed between Schumacher and Ferrari's technical director. Both their contracts run out at the end of this year.

"I'm not saying it will definitely happen. But I believe the idea is being discussed, and I can imagine Michael doing it," said Jordan, who sold his team to Midland last year. "He's still a very powerful figure and his name carries huge weight in F1. Schumi could certainly open doors that other people would find locked.

"I wouldn't be surprised if he encouraged Volkswagen, perhaps using their Audi brand, to come to the F1 table. 'Team Schumacher Audi F1' or 'Team Schumacher Volkswagen F1' would immediately attract a huge following in Germany - and worldwide."

He added: "None of this is certain, but I could see Michael and Ross basing their new team at the (Renault) Enstone facility they had so much success at before."

Schumacher and Brawn worked together at the Benetton team before Renault took over the Enstone-based squad.

Schumacher's spokeswoman, however, denied there was any truth in the story.

"This is a new rumour, although it's not too full of fantasy, considering the link between Michael and Ross," she said. "But it's pure rumour - Michael has said countless times that there are few things he would be less interested in doing."

Schumacher, the oldest driver on the grid at 37, will make a decision on his future later this year.

Brawn said he was unaware of Schumacher's plans, but he also dismissed the rumour.

"I cannot comment on Michael's plans for the future because I don't know them! But as far as I know, there's no truth in the rumour, especially the bit concerning me," Brawn said.