01/11/2004
NEWS STORY
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At an informal meeting with the media at the 2004 Ferrari Maserati World Finals, it fell to Jean Todt to open proceedings.
The Ferrari Managing Director was joined by Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello at the Monza circuit where the drivers were taking part in a Formula 1 demonstration run.
"It is particularly enjoyable to be here at Monza for this day of celebration, without any sort of pressure or tension, in a completely different atmosphere to what we are used to at the Grands Prix, where we always face a difficult challenge," declared Todt. "The entire Ferrari family has turned out here: the team, the owners, the fans, the sponsors, all together to celebrate a season which can be described as unique. It will definitely not be easy to repeat it, because the car world is a difficult one on all levels and we always set ourselves very ambitious targets.
"In Formula 1, we took both world titles. As for the road cars, this year we launched two new models, the 612 Scaglietti and the Ferrari 430 and our sales reached a record level, while the licensing and merchandising operations are doing well. We are very satisfied with everything that has happened this year," said Todt.
"Obviously, we need to look to the future, which will be very competitive, given who we are up against, both in commercial and sporting terms. Our group is united, strong, stable, passionate and motivated. All this gives us the right lift to go forward in the same way."
Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello also declared themselves very happy to be in Monza to celebrate this incredibly successful year.
Asked how he felt about being part of the greatest winning streak in Ferrari's history, Michael replied that he obviously felt it was something fantastic, but that in sport, it was best to always look ahead, not backwards. "We are used to always thinking about the next race, the next championship," said the German champion. "It is part of way of doing things, so there is not much time to reflect on what we are going through right now in terms of seeing the bigger picture. But it is great to be part of a day like this, with everyone together to celebrate a really unbelievable season."
"Driving for Ferrari is a real dream, a dream come true," added Rubens. "Still today, I remember the emotions I felt when I saw my name on the side of the car for the first time. This is an extraordinary team, which works in unbelievable harmony. We work together and we win together, so it is very nice for all of us to be here together today."