(GMM) The hot topic at Monza this weekend is the likely announcement that Michael Schumacher is retiring after 15 years in F1.

No matter their previous opinion of the controversial seven time world champion, fellow racers are converging in tribute for the 37-year-old German.

Jarno Trulli, Giancarlo Fisichella and Vitantonio Liuzzi added their words of encouragement for the Ferrari veteran to stick around, while a huge flag on a Monza grandstand bore the message: ‘Without Schumi in F1, no-one else exists’.

Another banner said ‘Kimi, red does not suit you’.

Even Pedro de la Rosa, who earlier this year quit the GPDA in protest of Schumacher’s presence, had a magnanimous word to offer.

”He used to be my idol and he is not any more,” the Spaniard told ‘AS’ newspaper.

”But he is a great champion; he never throws in the towel.”

Schumacher himself is under a Ferrari gag-order to keep quiet until Sunday, but such a news bombshell must be difficult to contain.

He did admit to reporters that he has ‘no plans’ for the months following a theoretical retirement after 89 grand prix wins.

”I suppose I would be unemployed,” he smiled. Asked if he would miss these gatherings with reporters, the German giggled back: ”Of course!”

Younger brother Ralf counted himself out of the topic entirely, when asked if he thought Michael is about to retire, commence a sabbatical, or switch to a rival team.

”I choose option number four,” the German answered, ”and will look for a good Pizzeria for this evening.

”I don’t want to say anything. It’s his decision.”

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