Schumacher aiming to beat Fangio's record

Michael Schumacher has pledged to push for a sixth world title next season, having equalled Juan Manuel Fangio’s record of five world drivers’ championship crowns.

The German ace claimed the 2002 title at the French Grand Prix on July 21, the earliest the championship has ever been settled.

His French win took Schumacher’s tally of grand prix victories to 61 from 171 starts. His first victory was at Spa in 1992, and his first world title came with Benetton two years later.

Two weeks after Schumacher’s title victory came the confirmation that Mika Hakkinen will not return to Formula One racing. The double world champion has been taking a sabbatical in 2002, but has now decided to focus on his family rather than return to motor-racing.