Williams denies Ralf speculation

Following the Chinese Grand Prix there was a certain amount of speculation that Williams would replace Ralf Schumacher with Antonio Pizzonia in Japan, but the team has denied that will happen. Schumacher returned to action in Shanghai after a three month absence, but failed to finish the race.

Ralf Schumacher.

Photo by Brousseau Photo.

His car suffered a puncture after contact with David Coulthard's McLaren and Schumacher was forced into an unplanned pit stop. Williams, however, was anticipating Juan Pablo Montoya's imminent arrival for his scheduled stop and told Schumacher to wait.

Ralf subsequently decided not to rejoin the race as he felt he would be too far behind. Williams was not terribly impressed with his decision but is adamant that Schumacher will be behind the wheel for the last two races.

"Let there be no misunderstanding about the team's commitment to Ralf. He will be racing for the team in Japan and Brazil," said Frank Williams in a statement on September 28th.

"Since his recuperation, his work in the car -- both testing and racing -- has been characteristically quick and consistent, and his contribution to the championship outcome will be vital."