It's easier than I thought, says Schumacher

VALENCIA, Spain: Seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher admitted his high-profile return to Formula One after a three-year absence was easier than he thought.

The 41-year-old German was third fastest in his Mercedes on the final day of testing on Wednesday, just behind Ferrari's former double world champion Fernando Alonso and Sauber's Pedro de la Rosa.

"Actually, it's been much easier than I anticipated. I thought it would need a bit more time but it went pretty quickly," said Schumacher who put in a gruelling 82 laps.