DC primed for first corner showdown

The duo are lined up on the front row for a race which Coulthard needs to win to close the gap on Schumacher's massive 37 point lead.

With the dominance of Schumacher's Ferrari in qualifying allowing him to grab pole by 0.8 seconds, and with overtaking almost impossible on this twisting track, Coulthard's only chance may be in the 600-metre dash to the first bend.

Schumacher only needs to stay where he is for 77 laps to become the third man in history to win the championship a fourth time.

"The reality is that the race is decided at the chequered flag, but one of the most decisive parts of the race will be the short run down to turn one," said Coulthard.

"I've got to go for the win and prolong the championship. It'll take seconds... Less time than it takes to win the Olympic final."

But the Scot faced up to the reality that with a 37-point deficit, only a miracle will prevent Schumacher winning his fourth world title

"Even if it is decided tomorrow and he is the world champion, I am not going to hang my head and moan saying, 'oh God, what's the point of racing'," said the Scot. "Each race is an opportunity to try and be the best and try and win a Grand Prix.

"I have five more opportunities this year and have to wait again next year for the opportunity in individual races and the opportunity for a world championship.

"It's another five races before we have to start reflecting, but I am happy with the progress I am making in my driving, positive about the way I have performed this year and I can't do any more than that.

"We just have to work to get the car advantage we had in the past, then hopefully I will be in a position to get the job done."