Michael Schumacher, arguably the greatest racer in Formula one history, and seven-time World Champion, came out of retirement to sign a three-year contract with Mercedes on this day in 2010.

After spending three years on the sidelines, the announcement saw him partner Nico Rosberg seven years ago.

Schumacher held a number of records from his groundbreaking first stint from 1991-2006, such as most championships, race victories, fastest laps and pole positions.

But despite the high-profile comeback story, Schumacher never experienced victory again.

He ultimately struggled on his return but, nonetheless, Schumacher’s mere presence at races that season ramped up the excitement at seeing one of the sport’s greatest back in the driving seat.

Other memorable sporting events from December 22

1981: Former England and Yorkshire cricketer Geoff Boycott broke West Indies’ Garry Sobers’ Test record of 8,032 runs during the Delhi Test against India, which eventually ended in a draw.

1990: An NBA game which took 26 days to finish was decided. Problems with freezing weather saw several postponements before Boston Celtics beat Atlanta Hawks 132-104.

2006: Glenn McGrath, the legendary Australian pacer, announced his retirement from international cricket.

2010: Sachin Tendulkar, the former star cricketer from India, retired from One-Day International cricket.