F1: Schumacher to participate in US Grand Prix

Ferrari’s Michael Schumacher has dismissed speculation that he plans to withdraw from the American Grand Prix in two week’s time.

The German driver said if the Indianapolis race goes ahead, he will participate, despite concerns following last week’s attacks in New York and Washington.

Yesterday, Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone said he would strip Schumacher of his fourth world title if he refused to take part in the race.

Despite Schumacher’s willingness to take part, the Indianapolis Grand Prix still hangs in the balance while the world waits to see what George W Bush does next.

If Mr Bush launches retaliatory strikes in the Middle East, the US authorities could close off all their airports, as they did in the wake of last week’s atrocities.

This would leave hundreds of drivers, mechanics, engineers, marketing staff, journalists and television crews stranded in the US with no means of flying to Japan for the last race of the season in Suzuka on October 14.

A final decision on whether the Indianapolis Grand Prix should go ahead is expected in the next couple of days.