Schumacher looks back at the French GP - 4th July 18:07pm GMT

The post-race procedure was unchanged: Michael spent some time the FOM hospitality tent where he chatted to his brother, Ralf, and the other drivers. He then left for his home in Switzerland. Michael will enjoy a short break there before leaving for England on Wednesday. On the Thursday morning before Silverstone, he will take part in an event organised by Shell and Vodafone.

Michael has been quite open since the race in France: “we are quick enough to be in with a shout of victory, and this is obvious”, declared Michael. “The gap to Alonso is wider than we would have liked and even Kimi’s form was striking. Still, we have to be pleased with third place as the race could have gone worse. After the times we set on Friday and Saturday, I thought that we really were in with a chance of victory”.

The reigning champion believed that some forward strides had been made. Qualifying saw much improved times on those from the previous races. “Now we have to try to obtain good results and be competitive at every stage of the weekend. We have already improved and there is no reason why we cannot continue to do so. The important thing is to persevere and believe in ourselves. We have to stay as calm as we have been until now and concentrate on the work to be done”.

There are many who doubt that Ferrari can still challenge for the title but Michael is not one of them. “Firstly, the second half of the season begins now and logic dictates that the gap is still bridgeable. Secondly, I am a realist and as such am a lover of mathematics; there is still the probability of winning. Formula 1 is such a changeable sport that it would be foolish to give up on the title. We are not so foolish. As I have said, we have to focus on getting back to the top. We will be trying to do this at Silverstone this weekend”.