Schumacher rallies Ferrari to stay focused

Although the German and teammate Felipe Massa scored a dominant 1-2 finish in Hockenheim last weekend, he thinks that only a big effort will allow them to maintain their winning momentum.

"Sure it was great, but it will not be easy doing it again right away," admitted Schumacher, reflecting on his third consecutive victory. "Saying this, a win is vital if we are to keep up the chase.

"We have to score more points rather than pushing things and trying to dominate the race. We will have to maintain a high tempo and be focused throughout. In modern day Formula One, nothing is a certainty."

Despite his slightly cautious feelings about the situation, Schumacher admits that the summer test ban will play into Ferrari's hands - because Renault and tyre supplier Michelin cannot test new products on track in a bid to recover their form.

Schumacher added: "Clearly, there is no need to make big changes at this point. Thanks to the pause in testing that will last until the race in Turkey, this advantage should last two races.

"This is why we think we could have some influence on the destination of the title. There are six races left and we will be going for it".

Schumacher cancelled a post-race German Grand Prix party to celebrate his victory on Sunday night, so he could fly back home to Switzerland to relax.

"The break to the next race is a short one and the stakes are so high that I preferred getting some immediate rest so that I can go into Budapest recharged," he said.

"As regards the team's morale, I have to say that a 1-2 at Hockenheim has helped us very much. Ferrari dominated as we did on our best days from the past.

"It is a result that, obviously, impressed the fans. Above all, it is a win that reopens a championship race that everyone had already given up as lost.

"The drivers' title is up for grabs. The great thing is that I now have the mathematical chance to win it without having to depend on the actions of anyone else."