Football on the mind of Schumi - 2nd July 22:25pm GMT

Michael left Europe on Sunday evening after having spent three weeks in North America. He was looking forward to spending time at home with his family and headed to Switzerland with some friends. There, in peace and quiet, he will watch the World Cup semi-final between Germany and Italy.

On Wednesday afternoon, he will pack for Spain where he will be testing for two days at the Jerez circuit. "This is how things should be; we have to continue working", declared the seven-time world champion, who was in a good mood. "We are heading in the right direction".

The Indianapolis weekend was encouraging proof of Ferrari's strength. "It was clear from the Friday that things would have gone well and in Saturday's qualifying we had a big advantage over our adversaries. The gap in the world championship is down by six after yesterday's win". Six very important points, as he himself stated.

"Our aim was to make up ground on the leader and this is what we have done". Michael has never once ruled himself out of the title race. "There was never any reason to give up. On the contrary, our display at Indianapolis was encouraging. We want to show what we are capable of. We should not forget that there are eight races left and there is still time to bridge the gap. We will try to do this and see how things turn out. Our aim, as ever, is to be world champions".

First though, Michael wants to see how Germany do at the World Cup. A place in the final would be ideal. "I have tickets for the final in Berlin and it would be even better if Germany were to make it. I have my fingers crossed for tomorrow. Despite the fact that I race for Ferrari and that I have many friends in the squad, the German football team really gets me going. The guys can do it, I am sure. I cannot wait for the match in Berlin"!