Schumacher claims pole position

Schumacher has a remarkable record in at the Catalunya circuit just outside Barcelona. In nine races, he has won twice (’95 and ’96), been second twice, third three times and also has a fourth and sixth place. However, Hakkinen has won the last two races here with back-to-back seconds for his teammate Coulthard.

Hakkinen won the first three poles this season with Barrichello taking the pole in Britain.

“It is obviously satisfying, but honestly if you look back since the beginning of the season we’ve always had the opportunity,” Schumacher said. “But we didn’t use our opportunity.”