Schumacher happy after first day

Team boss Jean Todt predicted a difficult scrap for pole after David Coulthard went just fastest by less than a semi-automatic gear change.

The Ferrari team looked strong and confidently in control as Schumacher and team mate Rubens Barrichello set second and third fastest times respectively.

"We had a trouble free first day today but it is tomorrow that counts," said Todt. "Tomorrow the battle for the places on the front two rows should be very close."

Schumacher added: "I am very optimistic that we can do good things over the next few days. I'm pleased to see the surface of the track has been improved and so has circuit safety."

Barrichello was equally up-beat. "The set-up is good and we've got a good balance so we are in good shape to fight for the front row places - but I'm sure it'll still be close."

Schumacher crashed out of the race last year a victim of Champion's Wall at the pit straight chicane but that is his only finish out of the top five in eight years.

He has won this race three times.

To see full results from the first practice session at the Canadian GP, click here.