Jet lag a distant memory for Schumacher
Michael Schumacher prepared for the race that could give him a record sixth world title with a few days holiday in the world's gambling capital, Las Vegas. The world champion quite clearly has no intention of falling into the media pressure trap
Schumacher spent some time in Nevada with wife Corinna, took in a new Cirque du Soleil show and even got a chance to play the slot machines before heading down to Indianapolis.
"Gambling's not really my thing," he said, "but it was a nice way to spend a couple of days."
Schumacher enjoys coming to North America because F1 has such a low profile and he can move around relatively unmolested. "There were a few European guys on holiday who recognised me, but the Americans don't," the five-time champion said. "Not even when I checked into my hotel at Indy, which was nice."
Many are beginning to speculate on what a sixth title would mean to Schumacher and whether, if he achieved it, he would have the motivation to carry on just as focused in a sport he has now dominated for almost a decade.
"To be honest I'm still thinking about that sixth title," he said, "because it will be a difficult one to achieve. For me, winning the title in 2000, with Ferrari, was the main target. Everything since that has been a pleasure. And if there is more enjoyment to come, that will be great."
He did not sound like a man preparing to make a surprise retirement, as has been suggested, if he wins a sixth title. Earlier this year, of course, Schumacher extended his Ferrari contract to the end of 2006.
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