Schumacher not beaten yet

The Hungarian Grand Prix will surely be one race that Michael Schumacher is keen to forget but he's convinced that Ferrari can improve in the final three races of 2003. However, with both championships a closely fought battle between three drivers ...

The Hungarian Grand Prix will surely be one race that Michael Schumacher is keen to forget but he's convinced that Ferrari can improve in the final three races of 2003. However, with both championships a closely fought battle between three drivers and three teams, Schumacher knows Ferrari is going to have to work hard to win another title.

Michael Schumacher.

Photo by Bridgestone Corporation.

"The 2003 Formula 1 season is now entering its decisive phase, with three drivers very close in the order, so from now on we must concentrate very hard," he said. "Budapest was a negative weekend and obviously, after the race, I was pretty disappointed, especially as I expected more after practice on Friday and Saturday."

"Unfortunately, a few things went wrong in qualifying and the race, so we were unable to show our true potential. However, I am convinced that we can still get a lot more out of our package and we will try and do that in the remaining races."

Testing resumes next week, after the summer ban, and Ferrari will be straight out on track to start work on finding ways to improve. Schumacher will start testing next Tuesday at Monza.

"In the first week of September, we have an intensive test programme to undertake with lots of things to try out in all areas," he explained. "Our team is strong and united, so I am confident. You can feel that everyone is motivated to do their best in this fight for the title. Team spirit is one of our strong points. Like everyone in the team, I believe in our ability."

Naturally the other teams will also be eager to test and aim for improvements; Schumacher is looking forward to rejoining the fight at the next round of the championship at Monza on September 14th.

"We will work hard and prepare for the final three races," he concluded. "The title race has become very close. I have never shied away from a fight and even now I am ready to fight for the championship. I am convinced we will make significant progress and we will be able to attack again."