At Monza concentrating on the race - Schumi

Last week Michael was busy testing ahead of the Grand Prix of Italy. Yesterday he participated in the Ferrari Days event at the Nürburging while today and tomorrow he will be preparing for this weekend's race at Monza.

"Yesterday's event was a perfect sporting stimulus and being by my family's side is a great way to prepare mentally", declared the world champion. On Wednesday it will be his team mate, Felipe Massa, who will be in Venice for the inauguration of the Ferrari Store. "Monza is always an important event for Ferrari and one rich in tradition. In the past, significant things have happened and it is clear that coming here is special".

As well as the title race, what makes this Grand Prix of Italy more of an occasion is that Ferrari will announce its driver line up for 2007 and, with it, Michael's future. "I understand that the announcement arouses some interest", admitted Schumacher. "We have already made known that the declaration will be made after the race as we want to focus on what is an important date. I am in full agreement with this. I can only add that I will not discuss the subject until Sunday".

The Ferrari driver is in the middle of the battle for the title. Making up a gap of 12 points with four races left will not be easy. "It is true, but it is not impossible", repeated Michael. "Our tactic can only be attack. We have to make up ground, put the pressure on and go for it. It is not the first time that we find ourselves in this situation and our experience should help us out. I think we still have a good chance of winning the title. Nothing has yet been decided and a lot can happen in the remaining four races. I think that we have good reason to be hopeful of our chances of taking both titles".

Before the weekend begins, Michael will once more pull on his football boots. On Wednesday evening at 20.30 he will be on the pitch as a national drivers' team takes on a Big Brother squad at Monza's Brianteo stadium in a charity match