Schumacher: I could drive in F1 but it's still very unrealistic

Comfortable in the sudden limelight and handling the attention like a seasoned pro, Schumacher batted off suggestions he could be in the top flight next year.

"I could drive in F1, that's clear," insisted the 19-year-old. "It's still my big goal but it's still very unrealistic. In order to be 100 per cent prepared to be there as a full race driver, it's necessary to go through all the different series of formulas."

"I prefer to move forward gradually, step by step, preparing really well. So it's important to always make the right decision. We will decide in the coming weeks."

"Every driver has the goal of being in Formula 1, it's the premier class and to stand up to the best there is the optimum. We are talking to some teams and putting together the best strategy for next year."

Accolades have poured in for Schumacher junior since he wrapped up the title last weekend at Hockenheim, hile his Prema Theodore Team claimed the team prize.

The teenager has been likened to his legendary father by Gerhard Berger, while Mercedes chief Toto Wolff is predicting big things for the kid.

Toro Rosso chief Helmut Marko is adamant that there are no plans to lure Schumi III into the Red Bull pen at this point, while Ferrari chief Maurizio Arrivabene has offered the red carpet should Mick come calling in the future.

On the sidelines of the recent Trento Sports Festival, Arrivabene spoke about Mick to reporters, "I have said we must leave him to work and have fun. Winning the titles means he gets a great deal of attention, but the last thing the boy needs is pressure."

"His name alone os nig pressure on his young shoulders. As for the future, Michael is part of Ferrari history so it would be difficult to say no to Mick in the future. For now he has to progress in his career, make his choices and we must leave him to do his work."