Formula 1: Schumacher: “I can wreck big brother’s record bid”

Ralf Schumacher is determined to wreck big brother Michael’s bid for Formula One domination.

The German believes he can thwart the world champion’s chances of equalling the record of nine successive grand prix victories.

Schumacher senior needs just three more to match Italian Alberto Ascari’s 1953-set total following his victory in Malaysia yesterday.

But Ralf reckons his Williams BMW is showing signs that it can challenge the supremacy of Ferrari following his fifth place in Kuala Lumpur.

The 25-year-old grabbed the two points despite a first corner collision with Rubens Barrichello in the other Ferrari that sent him spinning into last place.

The two Schumacher’s also produced a thrilling battle in qualifying last Saturday which Michael won to take pole with Ralf equalling his career best spot of third.

Now Ralf, who followed his more illustrious sibling into F1 in 1997, is confident of scoring his first grand prix win in the next few races and also end any thoughts of Ferrari winning all 17 grands prix.

‘‘I hope Michael is not going to win nine because I want to win one of the next races if I can,’’ he said.

‘‘We are closing the gap now and I am hoping to take the opportunity and win.

‘‘Ferrari are looking very strong but no-one is unbeatable so we will do our best and see what happens.’’