Williams: Ralf Looks Fitter than Before

Ralf Schumacher drew plaudits from team boss Frank Williams on Saturday after qualifying fifth for Sunday's inaugural Chinese Grand Prix despite a three-month absence from Formula One.

"I was impressed with his performance all weekend," Williams told reporters. "He was on the case and he arrived here looking very fit, fitter than I have seen him for quite some time, mentally ahead of the game if you like.

"He looks slimmer and his trainer pointed out they have gone for a different emphasis on the style of training which has not seemed to push up his muscle bulk but given him a more lean appearance," said Williams.

Ralf suffered two spinal fractures after crashing heavily at the US Grand Prix at Indianapolis in June, a race he can remember nothing about. He returns for the last three races of the season before joining Toyota next year, with Williams battling McLaren to be fourth in the Championship.

Williams have 60 points to McLaren's 52.

The team boss said it was clear the break had been beneficial to the 29-year-old, younger brother of Ferrari's seven-times champion Michael Schumacher.

"It depends on the individual but the break has not done him any harm from the fitness point of view and the mental approach," said Williams.

Schumacher, who missed six races, said he was pleased to be back in the driving seat.

"I didn't expect I would make it into fifth position," he said. "I found it quite difficult to set up the car this weekend and I am still having some difficulties in the first sector.

"Anyway, it's good to be back on track after such a long break and especially to be in reasonable physical shape too. I feel very well and I think we are going to have a good race."