Ralf to Decide on Comeback Next Week

German Ralf Schumacher is still uncertain about his participation at next week's French Grand Prix, his Williams team said today.

"Ralf Schumacher is recuperating at his home in Austria," said Williams in a preview statement. "A decision will be taken early next week regarding his condition and whether he will be fit enough to compete in the French Grand Prix."

Schumacher ended up in hospital after a heavy accident during Sunday's United States Grand Prix, in which he lost control of his car at over 300 km/h before crashing into the wall.

"As it's only been four days since I was released from hospital following the accident in Indianapolis, I can not, at this stage, make a decision as to whether I will take part in next weekend's race in Magny-Cours," said Schumacher.

"I am taking full advantage of the two week break between Indy and France to rest and recuperate from the accident. When the time comes to make the decision, I will be guided by Professor Sid Watkins' advice and speak to Frank Williams about the best course of action."

Spanish test driver Marc Gene, who replaced Schumacher at last year's Italian Grand Prix, looks like the main candidate to race in France if the German driver fails to recover.

Gene, who also raced in 1999 and 2000 for Minardi, will be the favourite to stand in.

The Spaniard was testing at Jerez in southern Spain on Thursday where he was seen practising pitstops - not a part of a test driver's regular duties.

There has however been speculation that Williams might use the opportunity to try out another driver, such as Brazilian tester Antonio Pizzonia, as they seek a replacement for Colombian Juan Pablo Montoya next year.

Pizzonia, highly-rated by Williams, is looking for a way back into full time racing after a disappointing debut with Jaguar last year. Canadian Jacques Villeneuve, who is also looking for a comeback and has been talking to Williams, is unlikely to be summoned however.

"We have said that we will look to our own drivers first," said a Williams spokesman.