Timothy Collings' Malaysian GP Preview

Triple world champion Michael Schumacher could make Ferrari and teammate Rubens Barrichello happier than ever in Malaysia on Sunday by not winning the final race of the Formula One season.

The 31-year-old German's main aim is to ensure that the Italian team, celebrating their first drivers' world title in 21 years after Schumacher won in Japan two weekends ago, also retain their constructors' title.

To do that, they need just three points.

"My mission is far from over," said Schumacher this week as he reflected on the future and his commitment to Ferrari.

"I don't see the champion's title, about which I am delighted, as an end in itself. I dream of much more -- of a new era for Ferrari.

"Winning a title once with the team is already a dream. To repeat such a feat once or twice, that's my aim, it would be wild. My contract expires in 2002. And I can't see a single reason to leave the team in the short term."

Schumacher would also like to help Barrichello to finish third in the championship by overhauling McLaren's British driver David Coulthard.

To do that, the Brazilian needs to take his second victory of the season and hope that Coulthard -- currently nine points ahead -- draws a blank.

"To finish third in the championship would be the greatest thing. I need to win with him not finishing in the top six which is quite difficult but the fight is still open," said Barrichello.

However, Schumacher and Barrichello can expect the race to be just as tough as the others since not only McLaren but all their rivals will be fighting to improve their rankings.

The race takes place at the relatively new Sepang circuit, close to Kuala Lumpur International airport, and the track offers several overtaking possibilities as well as the challenge of searing heat and almost overwhelming humidity.

"I'm focusing on getting a good result in Malaysia to finish both mine and the team's season in style," said Finn Mika Hakkinen.

"Our preparation for Malaysia is no different from our preparation for any other Grand Prix -- we go there to win," said McLaren team chief Ron Dennis.

"Our aim is to add to the seven victories and seven pole positions we have achieved so far this year."