Michael Schumacher will make a hugely-anticipated return to Formula One racing in 2010 after signing to race for 2009 champions Mercedes GP. The move was confirmed at a press conference in Brackley this morning following months of speculation linking the seven-times world champion to the team.

The news re-unites the successful partnership of Michael Schumacher and Ross Brawn, who together won seven drivers' championship and six constructors' championships during their time at Benetton and Ferrari. With Ross also having masterminded Brawn GP's title triumps in 2009 before the Mercedes buy-out last month, all eyes will be on the duo as they look to replicate their success together into 2010.

Although all of Schumacher's F1 success came at the wheel of a Benetton or a Ferrari, the German first got his break into the sport thanks to Mercedes. Having drive for Mercedes's sportscar team in 1990 and 1991, the German manufacturer paid his way to a drive with Jordan at the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix.

Statistically, Schumacher is the most successful driver in Formula One history, with a record 91 wins, 154 podiums and 68 pole positions from his 248 race starts. His record of seven world drivers' championships is also unparallelled in 60 years of Grand Prix racing.

“Mercedes GP Petronas represents a new challenge for me both in a sporting and a personal context,” began Schumacher. “It is a new chapter in my racing career and I am really looking forward to working with my old friend Ross Brawn and my companions from my days with the Mercedes Junior Programme.

“I am convinced that together we will be involved in the fight for the Formula 1 World Championship next year and I am already looking forward to getting back onto the race track. For me, this partnership closes the circle. Mercedes supported me for so many years when I began my Formula 1 career and now I can hopefully give something back to the brand with the star.”

His team-mate for 2010 will be fellow German Nico Rosberg, who's move from Williams was confirmed in November. “It is fantastic that Michael is returning to Formula One and will be my team-mate at Mercedes GP Petronas,” said Rosberg. “It's a great challenge for me to be up against one of the best drivers of all time. I'm sure that we will form a very strong partnership as he will have lost none of his speed! It is also great news for our sport and the fans.”

The 2010 line-up now has just six empty seats, with the 2010 season fast approaching. The line-up can be viewed here at any time.