Seven-time Formula One champion Michael Schumacher has silenced those questioning his decision to make a comeback this season.

Schumacher had retired in 2006, but has now signed a three-year contract to drive for the new Mercedes GP team from 2009.

"When I first announced my comeback, I felt like a little boy of 12 out in his go-kart for the first time. I have grown a bit older since then, but not much," The Sun quoted Schumacher, as saying.

"I know it's going to be tough. Just as when I first came into the business and looked at guys like Mansell, Senna, Prost and Piquet and thought I wasn't even on the same playing field. But then I realised they all cook with the same water. They may have had special abilities, but were still human," he added.

The 41-year-old further said he feels 'fully charged' as the new F1 campaign approaches.

"It did me good to get out. But now my energy is back. It's time to start this whole thing up again," Schumacher said. (ANI)