Schuey 'can't wait' for Suzuka showdown

Schumacher would only need to score a solitary point to take the title once more should Raikkonen win the race on Sunday. But Michael says he is not counting his chickens just yet.

"While there is still a mathematical possibility that he can become champion, then nothing has been won," said Schumacher. "This sport is unpredictable, it would be wrong to be confident too early and presumptuous to take for granted a victory that has still to be claimed. Everyone in the team is aware of what stage of the game we are at, and we are all very focused. I can't wait for the decisive race of the season on what will obviously be an emotional day.

"We got some good results from the testing programme we have carried out and we are prepared for this final race of the season. All the theories and calculations are no help once you are on the track. We have to work as best as we can, as always, leaving aside the 'ifs' and the 'buts'."

Schumacher has not only set his sights on the drivers' title but is determined to bring the constructors' championship to the Prancing Horse.

"At Suzuka we will be fighting to win both titles," he added. "We want to bring the constructors' and drivers' title back to Maranello once again. In short, we would like the 'Ferrari era', as these recent years have been dubbed, to continue for another season."