Schuey aims to improve record

Schumacher has 'only' won his home grand prix on two previous occasions, most recently in 2002 when he scored his sole F1 pole at Hockenheim. The six-time world champion says the race means something special to him.

"You can say whatever you want but a grand prix like the one at Hockenheim is always something special," said Schumacher. "Yes, it is one of many races but it is also a little different. It is my home race and I am in the happy position to say that I feel like that about other places, but Hockenheim, for me, has always been one of the most important rounds of the season, even though it hasn't been the scene of my best moments in the past."

However, Silverstone was also a track that hadn't been too successful for the German over the years (two wins in 12 attempts until this year), but that didn't stop him from scoring a dominant British GP victory a fortnight ago.

"At Silverstone I managed to improve my record there," he added. "I hope to do the same at Hockenheim. The F2004 is a great car that has done well on all types of circuit so far. I think that Hockenheim will be a tough race but I think that we have a good chance even here. In any case, I will be giving my all."