Schumacher wants Ferrari win in Japan

Schumacher and his Ferrari team mate Rubens Barrichello were both beaten by Mika Hakkinen at Indianapolis last weekend after the Maranello team was outflanked by its McLaren rival on strategy. However, the Ferrari number one, who has refuted rumours that he is set to retire, says he expects to be back on top at Suzuka.

When asked if he was considering calling it a day from Formula 1, Schumacher said: "No, I look forward to continue racing. I clearly enjoy myself, although maybe Indianapolis was not the best GP for Rubens and me, but we will have good times again soon.

"Japan is a good circuit for us, so we can prove ourselves. You will see that we will be competitive again there, it's another good opportunity to win a race, because our car should allow us to do this."

Schumacher does not expect Ferrari's dominance to come to an end after Japan either. The four-time world champion has won eight races so far this season and while he expects McLaren and Williams to pose a threat next year, he feels sure improvements at Ferrari will keep the team out front.

"Certainly, I think, Williams-BMW and McLaren-Mercedes will make our life very difficult," said Schumacher. "But on the other side, with what I know is going to come here [at Ferrari], I am feeling pretty optimistic."