Ferrari celebrates constructors' title

President Montezemolo, Jean Todt, Michael Schumacher, Rubens Barrichello, Luca Badoer, Ross Brawn, Rory Byrne, Paolo Martinelli and over 500 Ferrari staff gathered at Fiorano to celebrate winning the Constructors' title. An informal atmosphere, buffet and music meant that it was a perfect evening for the Ferrari family.

Ferrari employees and team members celebrate 6th consecutive Constructors World Championship.

Photo by Ferrari Media Center.

Jean Todt began by thanking all the Maranello staff for their precious work: "If we are the best in the world, it is because we have the best staff in the world: you, world champions!"

"We have the best car and the best drivers, a circuit fiend like Luca Badoer, a superb organizer in Ross Brawn, a dream engine director like Paolo Martinelli and the world's best engine designer in Rory Byrne. And then there is our president who I would like to thank for always giving his support, even during the more difficult moments."

It was then the turn of the drivers with Michael Schumacher kicking things off. In perfect Italian he said, "I will say what I feel inside: I really appreciate your work, thank you for everything." Barrichello paid particular attention to those that are not part of the track team: "Thanks a lot; we always think of you all when we race."

Ross Brawn also gave a speech in Italian. "When I arrived I had a dream: win some races and maybe a championship. After six Constructors' titles and five Drivers' I think that it has been incredible and that it will never end. Thank you for more than fulfilling my dream."

Paolo Martinelli revealed that "it was a pleasure constructing such fast engines for such good drivers. Forza Ferrari!" Rory Byrne thanked everyone for the joy the success brought him.

It was President Montezemolo who closed out the series of speeches before the dinner and the music began. Montezemolo invited everybody to take in the banner set up in the stands at trackside. The banner listed all the titles won since 1999.

"You are all part of this success. Don't forget what we have achieved. When we are old, around 120 or 130 years old," joked the President, "you can tell your grandchildren that you won eight World Constructors' Championships."

The evening ended with dinner. Everybody, from Montezemolo and Jean Todt to the drivers made themselves available to sign autographs and photos for whoever asked for them, a lasting reminder of a very special moment.

-ferrari-