BERLIN, Feb 23, 2008 (AFP) - Seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher will be back behind the wheel of a Ferrari when he steps in as a test-driver for his old team next week.

Schumacher, 39, will drive from Monday in Barcelona having already helped out for the Italian Formula One giants during testing this winter.

His time behind the wheel will allow Ferrari´s driver Felipe Massa to rest before the season starts on March 16 in Melbourne.

"We wanted to give Felipe a break and Michael is always willing to help us out," a Ferrari spokesman told German agency SID.

Schumacher retired from Formula One at the end of the 2006 season and has repeatedly ruled out any chance of a full-time return to the track.