Schumacher storms into pole position

At the same time the German gave a dramatic boost to teammate Eddie Irvine's title hopes as he dragged both Ferrari's on the front row - over a second separating him from the rival McLarens.

More critically Hakkinen ended up fourth on the grid after he was edged out of third in final seconds of the session by teammate David Coulthard.

The double champion added another incredible chapter to his career by blitzing around the circuit in 1m 39.688s in his first qualifying performance sicne he broke his lef at the British Grand Prix three months ago.

'I couldn't have dreamt of coming back like this a month ago,' admitted Schumacher.

'We expected to be strong as I have said but to be one second ahead is clearly surprising.

'We are back with a bang.

'The team has made a tremendous effort for the last few races and if the weather had been different I think Eddie could have been on pole in the Nurburgring.

'We have definitely made a big step in the development of the car. The car is very good so there is no surprise to be up front.

A question mark remains over his fitness over a full race distance after a long lay-off though injury but Schumacher has no doubts.

'I did 40 laps yesterday and today and I feel good, I feel in shape. Going to be a hot race but shouldn't be a big problem. I'm enjoying it here.'

Then he said the word's that must have been music to Irvine's ears.

'Of course I will let Eddie through if I am leading and he is second at the end of the race.

'But my plan is to go flat out until the end and then we will make the necessary decisions.'