Schumacher hit by another DRS problem

Michael Schumacher

Michael Schumacher’s lowly grid position in Shanghai has been explained, with the German having suffered a DRS issue for the second consecutive qualifying session. Whereas Mercedes teammate Nico Rosberg managed fourth position, without an issue this time, the seven-time World Champion is ten places further back.

“What a shame for me today, as we have clearly demonstrated this weekend that as a team we have improved a lot," said Schumacher. “Nico proved that strongly with his fourth place which was our realistic target.

“I didn't quite get my lap together in Q2 and since then we have found out that my rear wing was not functioning correctly as I was braking into Turn 14. I am obviously hoping to have a strong start and that we have good race pace tomorrow so I can hopefully make up some positions."

“I'm happy with our performance and it was a good day for us," Rosberg added. “It's clear that we have improved the car this weekend and I'm really pleased for everybody back at the factory who will have enjoyed watching that today.

“We're still not where we want to be but we have made progress and are closer to some of the guys in front of us, today at least. We have also worked hard on the race pace so there is every chance of a good race tomorrow."