Michael Schumacher’s return to Formula One is over.

Much to the dismay of F1 fans all over the world, the seven-time World Champion has decided to drop his intended return to the sport after lingering neck pains stemming from a motorcycle accident back in February forced him to abandon all efforts in his comeback attempt.

The news is a bitter blow to Schumacher, Ferrari, and Formula One, which was drawing major news time after Schumacher decided to return in place of the injured Felipe Massa. But due to his neck injury, Schumi’s planned comeback is now officially on the shelf.

For now, Kimi Raikkonen will be joined by long-time test drive Luca Badoer, according to Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo.

Here’s the official statement Michael Schumacher posted on his website:

"Yesterday evening, I had to inform Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo and Team Principal Stefano Domenicali that unfortunately I'm not able to step in for Felipe. I really tried everything to make that temporary comeback possible, however, much to my regret it didn't work out.”

“Unfortunately we did not manage to get a grip on the pain in the neck which occurred after the private F1-day in Mugello, even if medically or therapeutically we tried everything possible.”

“The consequences of the injuries caused by the bike-accident in February, fractures in the area of head and neck, unfortunately have turned out to be still too severe. As there were no improvements after the day in Mugello, I decided at short notice on Sunday to do that thorough examination already yesterday.”

"I am disappointed to the core. I am awfully sorry for the guys of Ferrari and for all the fans which crossed fingers for me. I can only repeat that I tried everything that was within my power. All I can do now is to keep my fingers crossed for the whole team for the coming races."