Indy crowds special for Schumacher

Michael and his wife Corinna left for the United States on Saturday, as soon as last week's Mugello test session was over. This will give him a few days rest before the United States GP, after a hectic and appointment-filled few weeks and it also means he has plenty of time to get used to the time difference. "A few days rest is always a good thing," said Michael before going on holiday. The Schumachers once again chose a holiday which is both relaxing and makes the most of natural surroundings, with plenty of horse riding on the agenda. Michael will not arrive in Indianapolis until the Thursday, just in time for the race weekend.

In the two days prior to his departure, Michael did a long test at Mugello, trying out tyres for the next grand prix. Neither Ferrari nor Schumacher have any intention of resting on their laurels. The championships might be won, but the will to win is still there. "We have such a good car that of course it would be great if the last two races went in our favour," said Michael, even though he was not prepared to make any predictions. "Tyres are a key factor as we saw already in Monza. Even if it looked as though things were easy for us, the race was actually very close." A clear picture of the situation will only emerge on Friday in Indianapolis.

The Ferrari driver has never denied that the American track does not feature on his list of favourites. Schumacher favours circuits which are more technically demanding, like Spa and Suzuka. "Of course it is a famous name, but you have to remember that the race does not take place on the famous Indy oval," continued Michael. "The new layout is not comparable and given its combination of corners, I would rate the Formula 1 track at Indianapolis as medium."

However, the enthusiasm of the American fans is anything but medium. "I have to say that racing in front of a crowd of 200,000 is something really special. I am curious to see what it will be like this year, given that last year's race came shortly after particularly sad circumstances. With hindsight, I would say it was the right decision to race there in 2001, as we tried to bring some happiness to people who had suffered badly with what had happened. I was very impressed by the attitude of the crowds: they were not beaten, but continued to live their lives united together. You could really feel it and it was very moving."

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