Schumacher confident, but not thinking of records

If Schumacher gets three more points than his only title rival David Coulthard this weekend, then he will become the third man in history to win four world titles. And if he wins in Hungary, then he will equal Alain Prost's record tally of 51 Grand Prix wins.

However, despite a 37-point lead over Coulthard and only 40 points still available, Schumacher is still trying not think about taking the title.

"I know it's possible for me to become world champion here, but I'd rather not dwell on that as nothing is certain until it's happened," said Schumacher. "I am excited about the possibility of becoming champion a fourth time but if I don't look it, it's because I am not there yet.

"How can I be excited if I am not there yet? Only having the possibility doesn't count. I will get excited when it is in my pocket."

The German has won the Hungarian GP on the often hot and dusty Hungaroring track twice in the last seven years and arrives this year fresh from F1's mid-season three-week break.

"I have traditionally gone well at the Hungarian Grand Prix," he said. "And after the short break I am looking forward to racing again."

Schumacher is keen to add to the six win tally he has notched up so far this year and continue Ferrari's domination, which has seen him win 10 of the last 17 races.

Technical director for the Maranello squad Ross Brawn has said he wants to build an era of Ferrari superiority similar to those enjoyed by Williams and McLaren - and Schumacher said that was his aim too.

"The target is to make this one last longer than others," said Schumacher. "I want to clinch this title with a win. But to finish first, first you have to finish. The car has improved quite a bit since Monaco and we have a new aerodynamic package."

The reigning world champion is confident there will be no repeat of the transmission glitches that blighted his Ferrari at the start of the German GP three weeks ago, or the fuel pump problem that forced him to retire after the re-start.

"The fuel pump problem meant nothing to me," he added. "A retirement or two during the season is pretty normal and not a concern for us. In fact it is a lesson and gives us a chance to make sure it does not happen again. I am not overconfident.

"I want to win, but I am not going to say I will win, that would be unrealistic. But the target is to win. And I like Hungary. It is slow, technical and if the car goes well it is a place where I like to drive. We can win every race if we get the car right - that is a fact."