Title rivals claim Monaco not crucial

The event is the jewel in the crown of the Formula One calendar and the bright sunshine that bathed the tiny principality nestling on the
Mediterranean made it look all the more impressive on Wednesday.

But for the hardened professionals like Schumacher and Hakkinen it may be the most famous race on the calendar but the rewards - superficially at least - are still just 10 points like every other event.

"It is not at all a key race," said Schumacher. "We are still far away from the point where you can start making predictions."

Hakkinen agreed: "This weekend is an absolutely normal Grand Prix weekend as far as scoring points and the championship are concerned.

"Of course to win in Monaco is a fabulous feeling. It's a fabulous feeling for yourself and for the team

"Does it help you to win the championship? yes, because you get 10 points, but this is a very long season and its just one of the races.

But he did have one rider as he heads into the seventh round trailing
Schumacher by 18 point. "In my case it is most important to score more
points that Michael," he added.