Eau Rouge needs run-off, says Ralf

The BMW-Williams has criticised safety at the high-speed left-right-left sequence of bends, which has a steep hill on either side and a compression in the middle. Drivers attempt to take this almost flat-out at speeds approaching 180mph, and Schumacher insists its needs a longer run-off area.

Eau Rouge is one of the most famous corners on the Grand Prix calendar because it a test of drivers' nerve, talent and bravery.

In recent years, however, British American Racing drivers Jacques Villeneuve, Ricardo Zonta and Mika Salo have all suffered massive shunts at Eau Rouge.

"I have never made a big deal out of the safety here," said Schumacher. "It is not the track at Eau Rouge that is dangerous, it is the run-off area. It is not wide enough.

"We have had big accidents there before and it has barely hurt people. But we are told that it is too difficult to change the run-off there. In my opinion it is not wide enough for a corner like that."