Austrian GP Ferrari Friday notes

Michael Schumacher:
"So far, I have never managed to win at the Austrian Grand Prix. But that does not mean I don't like the event. In fact, I enjoy the Austrian weekend a great deal, mainly because I love the setting, which is very beautiful with all that greenery and nature and the impressive mountains. The other reason I am looking forward to it, is to try and end my negative record here. As for the track itself, there is nothing too special about it, in terms of technical difficulty or its layout or driving style required. So I don't expect to experience any particular problems. After taking a very lucky win in Spain, I am looking forward to coming to the A1 Ring to prove that we are still frontrunners, even if there are still improvements to be made on our new electronic systems."

Rubens Barrichello:
"I have to admit that I like Austria a lot, as much for the countryside as for the circuit. I always look forward to going there. Also the fact that we are staying in a small and pretty hotel where it is very quiet and relaxing is an added attraction. I have mixed memories from last year's race, because, having qualified well, my race was compromised when the floor of the car was damaged in an incident with another car at the first corner. Despite that, I went on to finish on the podium in third place. The competition is always close on the A1-Ring. The grid is much closer together and there is a mix of fast and slow corners, some of which even require first gear. It will be interesting to see what effect the competition between the two tyre manufacturers has on the race this year. Despite having to retire with a suspension failure in Barcelona, I am in good form and I do not feel under any particular pressure. Ferrari is leading the Constructors World Championship and Michael heads the Drivers' classification with me in third place. I am in confident mood and looking to do better and score more points this weekend."

Jean Todt: "The Austrian Grand Prix is another event which has switched dates on the Formula 1 calendar. In 1997, it was held in September, then it was in July for a few years and now it turns up in May. We can therefore expect different weather to 2000, when the race in Zeltweg marked the start of a difficult period for us. We arrive in the enjoyable Austrian setting leading both Championships after the rather strange race in Barcelona. Of course we would like to win the sixth round of the season. Last week, we carried out five days of intensive testing at Fiorano, which involved all three of our drivers; Michael Schumacher, Rubens Barrichello and Luca Badoer. It was a very important test session, during which we worked on optimising the electronics and generally improving the performance of the F2001. The team is very motivated in its aim of increasing its lead over those closest behind us."