Seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher yesterday expressed his delight at the signing of Spaniard Fernando Alonso by his former Ferrari team.

Schumacher revealed that he was personally involved in the decision being taken in favour of Spain's two-time Formula One world champion. "Fernando at Ferrari, that really delights me," the German wrote on his website, www.michael-schumacher.de.

"I was involved in the decision-making process. I'm sure that Fernando is going to feel good with us and I can only welcome him."

Alonso, the world champion in 2005 and 2006, will join Ferrari for three years from 2010.