Toyota focused on helping Ralf improve

The younger brother of retired seven times world champion Michael Schumacher has had a dismal season, scoring two points in seven races.

His last race, at Indianapolis, ended at the first corner when he collided with Red Bull's David Coulthard.

In the mean time, teammate Jarno Trulli has taken seven points.

France's Franck Montagny is the team test driver and there had been media speculation before this weekend's French Grand Prix as to whether the local man might take over the race seat.

"The issue really is whether we continue the contract with Ralf next year, which we are discussing with him and obviously then, if not, what we would do in the future," Toyota team president John Howett told a news conference at Magny-Cours.

"But the priority at the moment is to focus on this year, improving the performance and giving Ralf the maximum opportunity with the car."

Schumacher, who celebrates his 32nd birthday on Saturday, has said he is not worried about his future and will be back next year.

Asked what the driver's main problem was, Howett recognised the car's handling was not to the German's taste.

"Really, you have to ask him, but the fundamental issue is the front end of the car and the tyre grip at the front, and getting the car balanced and giving enough front potential to give him something he can use with the style he has," he said.

"We are gradually improving that. I think he has probably less acceptance of an understeering car, so therefore we need to get more front performance and more potential on to the front of the car for him."