19/04/2006
NEWS STORY
The Easter break is over and Michael Schumacher is totally focused on the race at Imola that he described last week as "the start of the challenge for the title".
The opening of the European season should see a more competitive Ferrari live up to the hopes of the tifosi.
"We tested intensively and well at Vallelunga and Barcelona and gathered a lot of useful information", said the German. "We proved what we thought over the first few races but, unfortunately, we have demonstrated only too rarely: the pace is there; the package works. We are in the ball game. The new aerodynamics and the engine improvements are a clear step forward. We have also worked on the tyres and the set up and have received positive feedback in each sector.
"I repeat: now we have to improve our chances and that means always being among the leaders".
Improve and do it consistently; and there are factors that show that this can be done. The Vallelunga tests have highlighted the steps made with the tyres. Team morale has grown visibly. Even though the first three races did not go quite according to plan, Michael and the team's competitive spirit has grown and there are no lingering doubts.
"We want to do well at Imola and we want to be among the title challengers", continued the seven-time world champion. "We have fine-tuned our package during the tests and I think that we have a car with which we can compete for victory. I do not believe that the gap to the leaders is too big to close. Imola should be the first step towards this."
Stay calm; don't panic, is the motto. "I have been part of this world for a long time and it will not drive me crazy", added the Ferrari driver with a smile. "I have already seen other championships completely turned around. The most important thing is that we have the potential and so everything is possible".
As always ahead of Imola, Michael will take part in a charity football match. His team is made up of a number of Formula 1 drivers and will line up at the Benelli stadium in Ravenna against a team from the Banca di Romagna.
The drivers' tream includes: Matteo Munari, Ivan Capelli, Matteo Montezemolo, Gabriele Tarquini,
Jarno Trulli, Felipe Massa, Riccardo Patrese (Captain), Max Biaggi, Giancarlo Fisichella, Michael Schumacher, Giorgio Pantano, Emanuele Pirro, Augusto Farfus, Gimmy Bruni, Vitantonio Liuzzi, Marc Gene, Robert Doornbos and Zsolt Baumgartner.
Though more than 3000 tickets already have been sold, you can still buy the tickets at the Banca di Romagna branchs, or at the Associations offices.
Advance ticket sales also at: Bar Silvano, P.zza Einaudi 7, Ravenna, Tabaccheria Montecuti, Via Diaz-Ang.Via Roma - Ravenna and Edicola Arigoni, Via Romea 93, Ravenna.