Motor racing: Budapest win has Ferrari at fever pitch

THOUSANDS OF Ferrari fans blocked the streets around Monza yesterday as Michael Schumacher began a three-day practice session.

Supporters of the Italian team have been galvanised by Schumacher's stirring victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix in Budapest on Sunday, which has reopened the Formula One world championship led by McLaren's Mika Hakkinen.

Despite rain, 4,000 people had packed the circuit area by mid-morning, causing traffic chaos in the Milan suburb.

McLaren, with Scotland's David Coulthard at the wheel, along with Jordan test driver Pedro De La Rosa, will also be practising in Monza this week.

The teams are preparing for a crucial stage in the season with the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa Francorchamps on 30 August and the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on 13 September.

Heinz-Harald Frentzen is to continue receiving treatment for a virus until at least this evening. The Williams driver was taken to hospital after finishing fifth in Sunday's race.