Schumacher not prevented from joining rival, says Ferrari

Ferrari have insisted they will not prevent Michael Schumacher making a Formula One return with another team.



The seven-time world champion has been a consultant for Ferrari since retiring in 2006, and said recently he would stay in the role for another three years.



However, Ferrari Chief, Luca di Montezemolo said his position is \"not binding\".



The 40-yer-old Schumacher has been linked with a move to Mercedes, who have taken over world champions Brawn and already signed driver, Nico Rosberg for 2010.



Schumacher was on the brink of a racing return with Ferrari in August to deputise for the injured Felipe Massa.



Those plans were abandoned following medical checks on a neck injury the German suffered in a motorcycle accident earlier this year.