Schumacher Takes U.S. GP Pole in Indy

Topics:  Michael Schumacher, United States Grand Prix

VOA Sports
Voice of America
July 1, 2006

Seven-time Formula One driving champion Michael Schumacher of Germany has won the pole for Sunday's running of the U.S. Grand Prix in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Schumacher piloted his Ferrari around the 4.192 kilometer circuit in one minute, 10.832 seconds to capture the 67th pole position of his career.

Schumacher's Ferrari teammate Felipe Massa was second fastest (1:11.435) with Italian Giancarlo Fisichella third in a Renault.  Rubens Barrichello of Brazil qualified fourth in a Honda.

Reigning driving champion Fernando Alonso of Spain qualified fifth.  The Spaniard had won five poles in a row, but has yet to finish a U.S. Grand Prix.

Schumacher - the defending champion after last year's race turned into a six-car affair because of tire troubles - trails Alonso in the overall standings by 25 points.  The Spaniard has won six races and finished second three times for a total of 84 points.

Some information provided by AP.