Alonso remembers Schumi as rookies close in

SHANGHAI: As the finale of the 2007 Formula One season approaches, reigning world champion Fernando Alonso still looks back on the old days when he went head to head with the legendary Michael Schumacher.

The McLaren-Mercedes Team's Spaniard believes his battle with the German multiple world champion last season was more fulfilling than the 2007 season, in which he has faced a severe challenge from a couple of new drivers, including his rookie teammate Lewis Hamilton who held a 12-point advantage over him in the title race.

"We can't forget Michael Schumacher on the track," he said. "Last year was a more competitive season, fighting with seven-time world champion Schumacher and with Ferrari."