Irvine’s sights still on title

According to his contract the Irishman has to play second fiddle to the double champion when he recovers from breaking his leg at the British GrandPrix.

On Tuesday Schumacher ruled out a return at Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix because he was not fully fit but is likely to be back in action at the next round in Italy in just over two weeks time.

That may not be good news for Irvine who leads Mika Hakkinen by two points with five races remaining.

'I am going for the championship and I want to win it,' said Irvine on the eve of first practice for the race at Spa-Francorchamps.

'When the season started he was the best chance for the championship, but he's injured and now, after 30 points in the last four races, I am the logical choice.

'My manager has read in the newspapers that Luca di Montezemolo has said Michael will back me when he comes back but I haven't been told that.

'But then that's not my decision, it's Jean Todt's decision. I work for a team and they tell me to beat the McLarens. My orders are to beat the McLarens and I will be trying to do that anyway.'

The Ulsterman denies he is under pressure in the title scrap.

'I'm fine. I'm having a wonderful time,' he added.

'Everyone says this is any important race but it doesn't matter if I get zero here as long as I am ahead when Suzuka is over.'