Schumacher Targets '06 World Title

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SCHUMACHER TARGETS '06 WORLD TITLE

ITV

Michael Schumacher says he fully intends to reclaim the drivers' world championship title in 2006 and that Ferrari has been motivated, rather than deflated, by its heavy defeat this season.

Speaking on his official website the German claims he has set himself and his team the target of returning to form as quickly as possible.

Schu has endured the most uncompetitive season in his F1 career, while Ferrari's F2005 has lacked grip all season as Bridgestone has fallen behind rival Michelin.

"I can't repeat enough that this was to be expected," Michael said of his disappointing year.

"Racing is very much like life, there are ups and downs.

"And when you experience as many ups as we did over the course of the past years, it's clear that there has to be a down sooner or later.

"It comes in waves, so you shouldn't be discouraged by it. And when I see each and every one of us continue working, I can say that everyone is anything but discouraged.

"Our new challenge will be to not let the down last very long. We want to fight for the championship again next year."

Schumacher also believes it is too early to say whether an encouraging test at Paul Ricard last week will pay dividends in Suzuka.

"First of all, it was good that we were able to test calmly in good weather and had no technical problems," he said.

"I'd like to wait and see which effect our insights will have on the last two races this season.

"This year, it's often been the case that you don't see the developments until you actually hit the respective track."