Michael Schumacher has played down Mercedes' chances of challenging for a podium in the Italian Grand Prix.
The strong straight-line speed of the W02 allowed Nico Rosberg to lead early on in Spa, and with Monza being a circuit where even less downforce is required Mercedes is expected to be strong again. Schumacher told reporters at Monza that the circuit did suit the team, but that there was too big a gap to the front runners to be able to challenge further up the grid.
"Look at our ranking and at the moment it's pretty consistent in seventh or eighth - we are the fourth-strongest team and that's what is the optimum," Schumacher said. "At Monza straightline speed is good for us. Circuits with less corners seem to be beneficial. But honestly I don't think it's really enough to change our general position because the gap is too big."
Schumacher recalled the special feeling of winning at Monza having done so five times previously, but said that Mercedes was not in a position to harbour such ambitions this season.
"Certainly winning Monza is one of the sensational moments, and particularly being up on the podium - I think it's a unique atmosphere on the podium, there's nowhere else quite so intense. But I don't think we have a reason to talk about victories in my position, at the moment. We'll have to postpone this for next year."
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