Former Formula 1 driver Gerhard Berger believes Mercedes must pick up their first win sooner rather than later, admitting he is “tired” of the excuses coming from the team – but added that Michael Schumacher should ignore the critics that say he should retire at the end of the season.

The team was borne out of the Ashes of the World Championship winning Brawn GP team before the start of the 2010 season, but far from competing at the front of the gird neither Schumacher or team-mate Nico Rosberg have been able to even secure a podium finish since the German team entered the sport.

Both drivers looked to be capable of breaking their duck at the Belgian Grand Prix last month, but were forced out of the top three as Rosberg struggled with fuel and Schumacher, who was celebrating the 20^th anniversary of his debut in Formula 1, was unable to fight his way forward any more having started from the back of the grid despite getting past his team-mate.

“In Belgium it was frustrating to watch [Nico] Rosberg having a hell of a start and a perfect showing, but after a couple of laps losing place after place like an apprentice driver,” Berger told AUTOSPORT.

“First of all I have to say that I am bored by the advice from experts that Schumacher should retire” – Gerhard Berger

“All the explanations and excuses from Mercedes make me tired. It is high time that a premium manufacturer provides its drivers with a premium F1 car. The engine is widely regarded as the class of the field. Now it’s their turn to deliver the rest.” He added.

The former Ferrari and McLaren driver did however have some words of encouragement for Schumacher, who, having started from the back, demonstrated the sheer pace of the Mercedes to record his second highest finish of the season.

“First of all I have to say that I am bored by the advice from experts that he should retire,” he commented.

“He has so much fun in racing and, with all his qualities, why shouldn’t he go racing and have fun? He just combines professionalism and fun.

“After all his success he deserves this. The market has its own rules. As long as somebody gives him a car, he can do this.”

We’ve put together some videos of Michael Schumacher’s finest ever wins to 20th anniversary of his first ever race,check them out here!

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