Schumacher Accepts Title Hopes Are a Distant Dream

Michael Schumacher has conceded that his chances of retaining his Formula One crown this season are looking grim.

The seven-time world champion finished sixth over the weekend at the British Grand Prix, but confessed the points were not so much the issue but their lack of pace was proving to be critical.

For the second consecutive race, Ferrari crossed the line over a minute down on the race winner.

"I wish we could still race for the title but that's a distant, distant hope after this race," Schumacher said.

Schumacher explained : "Sixth place, I clearly can't be satisfied with that. Not because of the position, but because of our pace during the race.

"It's clearly not looking good for us in that respect, there's no two ways about it. In comparison to our competitors we've taken a step back rather than a step forward in terms of development.

"You have to be realistic about that. But this doesn't mean that we are going to give up, it's just a sum-up of the facts. We are not fast enough right now to be able to compete to win a race," added the German.

"I am still looking forward to my home race in Hockenheim, but I wish I could promise the fans there a bit more than this," he said .