Schumacher - 'I could have been on pole'

The German ended up third behind the McLarens of Mika Hakkinen and David Coulthard.

"It was unfortunate, like Australia, that circumstances worked against us again. I think I could have been on pole," claimed the German.

"I think it would been a close battle but at least it is good to know we are close.

"Just as I was in Australia I am pretty confident we have a chance of
winning the race."

Though the times were close, as they have been throughout the weekend, McLaren would appear to have a definite edge - if anything, greater than they did in Melbourne.

Schumacher initially trailed not only the McLarens, but his team mate Rubens Barrichello as well. In trying to keep up, he spun at the 160mph Descida do Lago corner, and damaged his front wing.

Though Schumacher claimed to have been harmed by the stoppages - caused by advertising hoardings falling onto the track - it was his team mate who suffered the worst luck. Barrichello looked likely to demote Schumacher to 4th, and even Coulthard to 3rd when the last red flag came into effect. By the time the session was started again, rain made it impossible to improve on previous times.