BMW could do without Ralf

Schumacher, whose Williams deal expires at the end of this year, told the German media that when he had been expecting to discuss an extension deal with Frank Williams at Suzuka last year, Frank did not show up and that suddenly the offer was no longer on the table.

Talking in Melbourne, Frank Williams said: "I can truthfully look you in the eye and say I never read any article about what Ralf said, because I chose not to. I am thereby in the happy position of truly being unable to comment..."

BMW Motorsport director Mario Theissen, meanwhile, added: "Having Ralf involved is not the first priority. We have always said that that is to get the two quickest drivers we can. BMW is globally operated and when we go to 16 of the 18 races, every one of us is a foreigner! And that applies to the drivers as well, so it's not that important.

"We see it as a bonus to have Ralf on board but we would never sacrifice performance in order to have a driver of a certain nationality."

Asked whether he was impressed by Jenson Button's performance in Melbourne, Williams replied: "I've always been impressed by Jenson. He's now got much better equipment to demonstrate his capabilities. The car needs the driver and the driver needs the car."

It might be argued that Schumacher Jr's negotiating position is not strong in that he would appear to need Williams more than they need him. Button, we understand, could be free to leave BAR if the team is not in the constructors championship top five by Silverstone, with Mark Webber in a similar position if Jaguar is not in the top six.

And then there is Nick Heidfeld, who gave Kimi Raikkonen a run for his money at Sauber, who looks set for a tough time at Jordan, who should be available, should not be too expensive and who also happens to be German...