Ralf says he enjoyed Toyota F1 stint

The German driver joined Toyota in 2005, hoping to help the Japanese squad fight at the top of the field.

However, that never happened and Schumacher scored just three podium finishes in 53 grands prix before having to move to the DTM after running out of options to stay in F1.

Despite the lack of results, Schumacher admits he had a good time at Toyota.

"I enjoyed this time," said Schumacher. "There are a lot of good guys and we stay in touch. Except for some strange decisions by the management it's a great team.

"The start in winter testing was not good, in Barcelona they made progress. I hope they can do better this year, I wish them luck."

The 32-year-old, the younger brother of Michael, admits he would not be interested in doing F1 testing like the seven-time champion does for Ferrari.

"For Michael, it's ideal. Ferrari is his family and living room. He can come to Spain, have a nice dinner and a glass of wine and do 100 laps next day without any pressure. It's fine for him. I would not do it. Right now, I would have no time for F1."

Schumacher added that the expects Ferrari to be ahead of their rivals at the start of the season.

"They will be in front at the beginning," he added. "McLaren might come close. I guess Melbourne is not the real test, this will be Malaysia the week after.

"Behind the big two it will be really interesting. Renault, BMW, Red Bull look good and Williams obviously did a very good winter job."