Schuey hails Alonso view

Alonso made his declaration at the official Renault launch - claiming that it was important for drivers to win the world crown when Schumacher was still around, rather than merely wait for him to retire.

"For a driver to win the title against Michael is ten times more important, but it's the same for the other 19 drivers on the grid," said Alonso. "We don't know when his last season will be."

Schumacher himself has heard the comments - and rather than feel fired-up about the view, he actually believes it is a backhanded credit.

"Somebody mentioned to me that Fernando Alonso apparently said that he wants to win the championship title while I'm still driving, because it will be worth less otherwise," said Schumacher.

"I was asked if this is an extra motivation: but first and foremost it's a nice compliment. I don't lack motivation anyhow."

Schumacher has been testing wet weather tyres for Bridgestone at Valencia in Spain today, before Ferrari switches to Barcelona for the rest of the week.