Ralf fears rain will be bad for Williams at Spa
( 2001-08-31 10:22 ) (7 )

Expected rain and cool conditions could hit Williams' hopes of winning the Belgian Formula One Grand Prix, Ralf Schumacher said on Thursday.

"As a power circuit it's great," he told a news conference at Spa ahead of Sunday's race.

"But we don't find 40 degrees temperatures here which is not going to help us. And rain is forecast for Sunday so that's another additional problem.

"It could work out in our favour if the weather changes but if it is raining it is going to be very difficult," said the younger brother of Ferrari's world champion Michael.

The BMW-powered Williams has been the car to beat in hot conditions at high-speed circuits this season but questions remain about the Michelin tyres in the wet.

As the German spoke, a steady drizzle fell over the undulating track, nestling among forests on the edge of the Ardennes hills.

Ralf is currently fourth in the standings but, after three wins this season, is very much in the hunt for second overall however he is not expecting any special assistance.

While the German is getting a lighter chassis with some aerodynamic changes for the race, team tactics will not play a part, and his Colombian team mate Juan Pablo Montoya will be free to try and beat him.

"Second in the drivers' (championship) doesn't mean anything for Williams, they are more interested in the constructors'," said Ralf.

"So for them it doesn't really matter who is in front as long as we score the points."