“The race at Indianapolis will be the most gripping for sure,” said the Ferrari driver.

“The Formula One season has reached its decisive stage and the US Grand Prix will play a pivotal role in deciding the provisional result, so I am looking forward to it eagerly.

“I expect a weekend of tense racing, above all considering how tight the competition has been this year. Last week we tested on different tracks and obtained superb results, meaning that we are in a position to battle for the win.

“I promise the Indianapolis fans a thrilling race in which we will give our best. Even though the track is not the most difficult to run on, the atmosphere at the Speedway really is something else.”

Schumacher heads into the 15th round of the 16-race season with a slender three-point advantage over the Williams of Juan Pablo Montoya with Kimi Raikkonen just four points further back for McLaren.

The 34-year-old could clinch a record sixth drivers’ title if he wins on Sunday and his two rivals falter, although the more likely prospect is a showdown in Japan on October 12.

Schumacher has shielded himself from the pressures of the closest championship contest for many years by spending a relaxing few days in North America with wife Corinna, heading out immediately after last week’s test.

“We are geared up for Indianapolis,” said Schumacher, whose five wins also give him the crucial advantage should he finish level on points at the end of the season with either Montoya or Raikkonen.

“A lot of people say that it is a track that is more adapted to BMW-Williams but we can’t say that we agree. The same thing was said about Monza but, after a tough fight, we won out.

“This means two things: predictions based on performances of years gone by are no longer reliable and that every tiny error can have serious consequences. Whoever is able to exploit the resources during the weekend will come out on top.

“The competition is so tight that crossing the line first could depend on each day’s results. It is a great challenge that we take on without fear and the other teams will do the same.

“The success at Monza has motivated us even more, but we know we are in a battle and we will not make the mistake of resting on our laurels.

“We are talking about sport, and in sport you can never plan anything down the finest detail. In any case, we are very well prepared will show our fighting spirit once again at Indianapolis.”

Schumacher won the inaugural grand prix when Formula One returned to the States in 2000 and would have triumphed again last year but his botched attempt at a photo-finish left team-mate Rubens Barrichello crossing the line fractions ahead.

The Swiss-based racer has also started every race on pole so will be a tough proposition for Montoya and Raikkonen, who both realistically need a victory before the decider in Suzuka where Schumacher should have the advantage.