Irvine aims to keep title lead

Arch-rival Mika Hakkinen is only two points behind the Ulsterman and the on-form McLaren team are hot favourites to move to the head of both championships after Sunday's race at Spa-Francorchamps, especially after their runaway 1-2 victory at the last round in Hungary.

But Irvine has other plans - even if spectacular Spa is not his favourite circuit.

'In Hungary, we were not very competitive in the race but we understand why and I do not expect it to happen again this weekend,' said the temporary Ferrari team leader.

'My personal aim is to leave Belgium still leading the drivers championship and help the team to keep its advantage in the constructors championship.'

'I know it goes against the generally held view, but I am not a big fan of the Spa circuit.

'Sure the setting is fabulous but apart from Eau Rouge, which is one of the best corners of the season, I do not find it very demanding.'

But beating Hakkinen might be.