The Italian team have planned the results of a number of races this season, first to help Schumacher win the title and then to secure second place for Rubens Barrichello.

The most recent example was in Italy two weeks ago, when Schumacher eased off to allow the Brazilian to win.

Barrichello is not yet mathematically secure in second place, but he only needs a fourth place to ensure he is far enough ahead not to be caught.

And Schumacher said that Sunday's race would see an open battle between himself and Barrichello.

"Even if I win, he would win his second position (in the championship), so that means it is a free battle for the last two races, which I'm looking forward to," said Schumacher.

He added that Barrichello, who replaced Irvine at Ferrari at the end of 1999, was the strongest team-mate he had partnered in his career.

"I would think so, yes. I don't think, if you go through history, we have had a situation being so close together, so consistently."

Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn said after qualifying: "The guys will be allowed to race as long as they don't do anything silly."

They have finished one-two for the last three races - and seven times in all this season.

The two men have raced before - but usually that has been when they have faced opposition from other teams.

When they have been comfortable out in front, the team have stopped them racing with only one exception.