Formula 1: Schumacher powers to Japanese pole

Michael Schumacher roared to pole position for the season-ending Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka.

The world champion easily overcame his rivals to claim his 11th pole of the 17-race season and the 43rd of his career.

The Ferrari driver finished a massive 0.700 secs quicker than the Williams BMW of Juan Pablo Montoya to register his sixth pole on Suzuka's unique figure-of-eight track.

Ralf Schumacher was third quickest in the other Williams, with Rubens Barrichello fourth for Ferrari.

McLaren's Mika Hakkinen was fifth fastest, with Giancarlo Fisichella sixth in his final qualifying session for Benetton.

David Coulthard, who needs to finish in the top four in Sunday's race to be sure of clinching second spot in the drivers' standings should Barrichello win the race, was back in seventh spot in his McLaren.

Jenson Button scored his best qualifying spot of the season with the ninth quickest time in Benetton's last qualifying session before the team officially becomes Renault next season.

The Brit finished one place behind Jordan's Jarno Trulli, who will be switching to the Renault team next season.

Frenchman Jean Alesi will start the 201st and final race of his career from 11th place on the grid in his Jordan while Eddie Irvine was 13th fastest for Jaguar Racing.

Schumacher, who began the season with three successive poles, was never threatened after taking top spot mid-way through the hour-long session.

Schumacher, who clinched the title at the Japanese track last year, is now in perfect position to win and equal the record of nine victories in the season he shares with Mansell.

"We expected to be fast here and we are," said Schumacher, who could break Alain Prost's points scoring record if he wins.

"What's more important is for Rubens to finish second in the championship, I can get more points next season."

Montoya said: "I was surprised how fast he (Michael) could flow through the first sector, but for my first time here it is not too bad. Experience of this track would have helped."

Schumacher junior said: "I improved each time I went out, but I think I have got a good car for the race."