Schumacher takes pole for USGP

The battle for the 2000 FIA Formula 1 World Championship is all set to entertain the expected 250,000 crowd as protagonists Michael Schumacher and Mika Hakkinen will start first and third.

The pair, separated by just two points in the title chase are joined on the front two rows by their respective team-mates, David Coulthard. and Rubens Barrichello.

With just three minutes remaining, both McLarens took to the track, despite Hakkinen not having enough laps left to set a time. But there was a plan. The Finn towed Coulthard around Turn 13 and onto the start straight before moving out of the way to let the Scot complete his final flying lap. While it seemed a good idea, the net result is that Coulthard wound up 0.195s slower than Schumacher - and knocked Hakkinen off the front row!

While the circuit may be new for everyone, it was still championship contenders Ferrari and McLaren that led the way.

The one hour session started under grey skies, and with the threat of rain virtually all the cars took to the track.

Jarno Trulli will line up fifth for Jordan behind the second Ferrari of Rubens Barrichello, and Jenson Button is sixth, having been competitive right from the start.

You will get all the news from the Indianapolis paddock here on Autosport.com throughout the weekend. Don't miss a moment!

Round 15 of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, the United States Grand Prix, starts on Sunday at 1300 local, (1900BST).

Quotes from the top three drivers will be here shortly. Come back soon!

For the starting grid for the US GP click HERE.