Schumacher optimistic after practice

The German driver, looking to bounce back from the disappointment of the Monaco Grand Prix, finished as eighth quickest in the second practice session, over 1.7 seconds off the pace set by BMW's third driver Robert Kubica.

Schumacher was the fourth fastest racing driver, and although he admitted it was hard to see the real picture following practice, he is in confident mood.

"It's a bit difficult to judge the situation after these two hours of free practice: tyres, fuel levels and work schedules are all different and they all have a bearing on performance," said Schumacher.

"What we can say is that it is very tricky as the track is still very slippery. That's why so many, me included, went off track.

"We have to look carefully at the data to understand the situation, taking into account the wind, which also played its part today. There is no reason why we should not be competitive here too. Last week's Barcelona test was very encouraging, so we can be confident in our ability to fight for the win."

Schumacher finished behind teammate Felipe Massa, sixth quickest.

"We worked mainly on comparing the two available types of Bridgestone tyre," said Massa. "Unfortunately, the track was very dirty and so it was quite tough to find the right car balance immediately, but that was the same for everyone.

"Now we must analyse our data to be as well prepared as possible for the rest of the weekend."