Ferrari’s seven-time formula-one world champion Michael Schumacher believes he will struggle to get a place on the podium at this Sunday’s Italian Grand Prix at Monza.
”In years past, we arrived at Monza close to clinching the championship and fighting for victory, but this time I’m not even sure whether we will make the podium,” said the 36-year-old German, who is third in the formula-one standings, 40 points behind Spanish leader Fernando Alonso.
Schumacher, who has shown signs of frustration at the Italian team’s lack of competitiveness this season, said his retirement from the Turkish Grand Prix earlier this month — his first in nine races — was the lowest point of the season thus far.
”It’s been a long time since things have gone so badly for us. It was disappointing because our previous performance, in Hungary, was encouraging.
”But we have no intention of giving up; we are very strong. In the past we have had some great seasons, but we haven’t been able to recover from a difficult year.
”We are very motivated and focused and will continue to try to find a solution. The tests in the last week have shown we have improved.
”I don’t think we’ll make the podium at Monza, but we can get some points.” — Sapa-AFP