Thursday November 28th, 2002

Formula One World Champion Michael Schumacher took part in a training session with the Cologne soccer team today.

"I've been a Cologne fan for years," said Schumacher, who won his fifth world drivers' title in 2002. "And because I was in the area I asked if I could train with the team. It was great fun."

Cologne coach Friedhelm Funkel said he had put Schumacher, who often plays in charity soccer matches, through the same tests as his players and did not give the Ferrari driver any special treatment.

"It was Michael Schumacher's wish that it be kept unofficial - otherwise there would have been a giant storm of onlookers," said Cologne spokesman Rolf Dittrich.

Cologne lead Germany's second division with 27 points from 13 matches after being relegated from the top flight last season.

Published at 16:50:16 GMT

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