Schumacher encouraged after practice

Schumacher, fighting a with Renault's Fernando Alonso for the title, was second fastest in the morning practice session and sixth in the afternoon.

He also finished ahead of his championship rival, who was down in 12th place.

"I am pretty satisfied. I did my best lap on my last lap and that is nice to know," said Schumacher, who only used one set of tyres today.

"It's a good sign for the tyres, at other races it was not the case. I hope we can continue that form for the rest of the weekend.

"Of course for perfect analysis you have to see more data. This morning Renault did not drive and this afternoon I did not see their times.

"But what is interesting is that there are other Bridgestone drivers in front of Michelin guys. I don't know what difference that will make."

Schumacher's teammate Felipe Massa was the fastest racing driver, posting the second quickest time in the afternoon.

The Brazilian, however, used two sets of Bridgestone tyres.