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Seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher proved he still has what it takes on the race track, after clinching victory at the International Challenge of Go-Kart Champs on Sunday. The annual contest, which sees top international drivers compete against each other, was held at the Ingeles kart track in Florianopolis, Brazil.

Schumacher, who retired from Formula One racing at the end of the 2006 season, started the event's first race in fourth before taking the lead on the second lap. He held onto first place until the chequered flag, leading Renault tester Nelson Piquet Jr across the line.

In the second race, the German finished down in sixth after experiencing brake problems. His aggregate total of 35 points, however, proved enough to take home the winner’s trophy.

The German’s former Ferrari team mates Felipe Massa and Rubens Barrichello were also in action at the event. Barrichello, who will drive again for Honda next season, finished fourth in the standings, while Massa ended the weekend in fifth. Although the Ferrari driver had won the event last year, he was not disappointed about Schumacher’s victory.

“I knew it would be hard to win again, because of the high level of the drivers that came here today, even higher than last year,” he explained. “It was nice to feel like in Monza, with the crowd crossing the track to get closer to the drivers.”

Former Jaguar and Prost driver Luciano Burti, meanwhile, finished second in the standings, just ahead GP2 driver Lucas di Grassi. Schumacher is expected to compete again next year to defend his title.