October 2004

PUMA AG and Michael Schumacher today announce that PUMA will become the official supplier of racing shoes to Michael Schumacher. The multiple F1 champion already started to wear PUMA fireproof racing footwear at the weekend’s Grand Prix of China in Shanghai.

“I am extremely pleased with our new partnership with Michael Schumacher,” says Jochen Zeitz, CEO and Chairman of PUMA AG. “After recently signing a contract with Ferrari – the top team in Formula 1 – we will now also be working with the top driver in Formula 1. Michael Schumacher has over the past years continuously impressed with his outstanding performance. He will certainly also challenge for the championship in 2005 and we are proud to work with such an exceptional driver.”

Michael Schumacher adds: “The demands in Formula 1 racing are very high and having the right equipment is essential. Footwear is no exception. The functionality of racing footwear like the car itself must be spot on. PUMA is one of the leading suppliers in motorsport and I am very much looking forward to working with them in the future.”

As fireproof racing footwear Michael Schumacher has chosen to wear the Future Cat, a newly developed racing shoe with an innovative design and truly unique specifications. Amongst these are asymmetrical lacing to improve blood circulation and a re-designed forefoot for the best of both worlds in combining a snug fit with optimum comfort. A dual density cushioned midsole helps to dampen vibration while driving. The graphic design features the leaping cat on the medial side, with the well-known PUMA Formstrip, still visible on the lateral side of the shoe.

German Michael Schumacher is the most successful Formula 1 driver of all times. Schumacher won his first two world drivers’ titles in 1994 and 1995 while racing for Benetton F1. Over the past years, he has, with his current team Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro, dominated Formula 1, and between 2000 and 2003 won four consecutive titles. This season he has already secured his fifth title in a row, which adds up to grand a total of seven world drivers’ titles.