In a unique e-mail interview with Mike Rowbottom, for British newspaper, The Independent, seven-time World Champion, Michael Schumacher, gave some refreshingly honest answers.

Not one for small talk or idle speculation, the Ferrari star refused to be drawn on a number of questions, most notably about football, though he did admit that he would never have succeeded as a professional soccer player.

"I am an amateur and I just enjoy playing around. I know where my talents lie," he admits.

"When I was a kid the coaches used to position me on the substitutes' bench, and they had their reasons."

On other issues he is far more forthright.

It is often said that in the absence of Ayrton Senna, the German came by his first couple of titles a little easier, than had the legendary Brazilian been there to take him on.

Asked how he thinks he might have measured up against the three-time champion, Schumacher responds: "How can I answer that seriously? Nobody knows.

"The only thing I know is that I would have enjoyed racing him, and that I miss him not only because of that."

Asked if he has ever run someone off the track deliberately - Rowbottom cites Damon Hill as an example - or whether he is "misunderstood", the Ferrari driver replies: "I am what I am. Some people understand me well, some less. That's just natural."

Adding: "The only thing to regret about this is that some don't even try."

On the subject of Hill, and former adversary, Jacques Villeneuve, Schumacher is aware of the burden of having a famous (racing) father, and would therefore not encourage his own son (Mick) to take up racing.

"The burden for any son of a big name is just so high - I have seen this with Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve. They fight against so much more than any rivals; at least at the beginning, they are constantly compared. I would want my son to be able to make his own way, uncompared."

In another clear attempt to rattle Schumacher's cage, Rowbottom asks the German's opinion of 2006 World Champion, Fernando Alonso.

"He is world champion!" he replies. "You don't achieve this by chance. So please don't ask if Fernando is a good driver; of course he is and I said very often that I have a big respect for what he did this season together with his team."

The overwhelming 'message' that comes across is that Michael - certainly away from the track - is a man at peace with himself, and clearly delighted with his wife and family.

Asked if there is anyone he doesn't have a psychological edge over, he admits that it is his daughter, Gina-Maria.

"When she comes and plays with me - I don't know if you have a daughter, but I can tell you it is hard to stay with your opinions sometimes. She is just so sweet, as is Mick. My kids are wonderful, and sometimes Corinna and me laugh our heads off at one of their sayings."

Asked, other than motorsport, what he is most proud of, he doesn't need to think hard for an answer: "My family," he says. "The best thing I have in my life."

And three words that he feels best sum him up... "Talent, passion, and wonderful emotions".