Schumacher Vows to Avoid More Errors

Although Schumacher's Ferrari proved to be the class of the field in the San Marino Grand Prix, Schumacher paid the price for an error in qualifying that left him 13th on the grid. It meant he had too much ground to make up during the race, even though he was able to challenge Alonso in the closing stages.

The reigning World Champion is well aware that even if he enjoys a similar car advantage at Barcelona to that which he had at Imola, then a victory charge will only be possible if he gets his act in qualifying together.

"It's very hard to pass at Montmelo too," said Schumacher in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. "So we'll need to start in front to have a chance of victory."

Despite Ferrari's pace at Imola, Schumacher does not believe that his team now have the edge on their rivals - although he is obviously relieved that the Italian outfit are in the hunt for victories.

"Let's say that Alonso is still the favourite, but Ferrari are demonstrating to have overcome the difficulties from the beginning of the season, so we'll be there too," added Schumacher. "McLaren are very strong, so they too are among the favourites. And let's not forget about BAR Honda, who seems like they're doing well in this test."

Schumacher also acknowledged a positive mood at Ferrari, which has been boosted by another encouraging week of testing at Mugello in Italy this week.

"In truth the atmosphere was fairly good before as well, especially after we realised in Bahrain how good this car is," he explained. "Obviously after Imola everyone is even more calm, motivated and happy. Starting with me."