Schu could quit, says Hill

Hill thinks that despite Schumacher's superb record this season - six wins out of nine races - other factors, such as the furore created after the Austrian Grand Prix could make him turn his back on the sport.

"He's been challenged not just by his team-mate, but also by the politics of the sport and by public perception," said Hill. "He can't just walk away from all that. It must have an affect. His driving ability is not in question, but there are all sorts of other things that keep getting piled on top."

A win this weekend at Silverstone and another at Magny-Cours in a fortnight's time will allow Schumacher to wrap up the championship in record time and Hill - who drove alongside Alain Prost during his final season at the top - thinks that the German's attitude in the remaining races of the year will be a pointer to what lies ahead.

"I'll be interested to see if he enjoys the rest of the year once the title is complete," said Hill. "It may add to his motivation and we may see some great races. However, if he is still under intense pressure from Rubens [Barrichello] then I think he may consider other things."

Schumacher is contracted to Ferrari until the end of 2004, however, it is believed that his deal enables him to walk away from F1 should he feel that it's time to quit.