Schu still pushing for Monza deadline delay?

(GMM) Despite Ferrari's official protestations to the contrary, it is still possible that Michael Schumacher will delay his decision about 2007 beyond the Monza race in two weeks.

The German driver's manager, Willi Weber, told pay broadcaster 'Premiere' that he would 'completely understand' if Schumacher needs more than fourteen days to make arguably the biggest decision of his life.

But Weber said: ''I do not know what will happen in Monza, but I assume that something will happen.''

His comments follow the insistence of team spokesmen, Ross Brawn and Jean Todt that the Monza announcement is still on track, and Bernie Ecclestone's claim in Istanbul that Schumacher is likely to retire at the end of the year.

Team principal Todt dealt awkwardly with Ecclestone's revelation while talking to reporters after the race.

''Michael joined Ferrari in 1996 and one day he will decide to stop,'' the Frenchman said.

''When the day arrives we will let you know.

''Bernie does not have any idea whether Michael will be driving in the future or not.''