Schumacher could be back for Hungary

Weber said the German would be set to begin testing at Ferrari's circuit at Fiorano, subject to medical approval.

'If there is no medical objections, we will test on Saturday,' said Weber.

He hinted that Schumacher could return to racing at the Hungarian Grand Prix on August 15.

'First of all Michael must confirm that he has no problems during testing and if that is the case then of course we will think about Hungary,' said Weber.

Schumacher is to meet his doctors on Friday.

This sudden spurt of activity from Schumacher's camp comes after McLaren driver Mika Hakkinen failed to score any championship points during Sunday's German GP.

If Schumacher makes an early return to the track, he will only be 12 points behind the Finn, and 20 points behind championship leader and team-mate Eddie Irvine - who would have to halt his own championship charge to support the German.

When Schumacher broke his leg during the British Grand Prix, his chances of winning the championship looked remote.

However, Hakkinen has only scored four championship points since the German was injured.

He suffered reliability problems in both the British and German races, and notched up just four points for third in Austria - after team-mate David Coulthard ran into the back of him.