Alonso: Schumacher focused on title battle

Schumacher, 12 points behind Alonso in the championship with just four races remaining, will announce his future following Sunday's race.

All eyes will be on the Ferrari driver this weekend, but Alonso believes the German will still be focused on winning the race and closing in on his rival.

"No, I don't think so," said Alonso when asked if he expected Schumacher's announcement to influence his performance.

"I think Michael will concentrate on the race and on the championship, and he does not have to take the decision. He made already the decision whenever, one month ago or one week ago to stay or to go.

"And he will say on Sunday afternoon, I think. That will not change too much his motivation or performance in the weekend, or the rest of the year. It is the same for Ferrari.

"We all want to win; Renault want to win, and Ferrari want to win - Michael and me. It will not change anything."

The Spanish world champion said if Schumacher decides to retire, there will be plenty of other drivers that will be equally challenging to fight against next season.

"I think it is always good to race with great champions and with people with a lot of wins, pole positions, fastest laps and all the records Michael had," Alonso added. "So it is always good to beat him. It is better than the other ones.

"But if he goes then I think there are still another 21 drivers, fantastic drivers, to challenge next year and to beat them. I think it is not necessary to miss anyone."