Japanese GP Friday Ferrari notes

Michael Schumacher: third, 1m 42.215, 28 laps, F399 chassis no. 195 Eddie Irvine: tenth, 1m 43.375, 33 laps, F399 chassis no. 196

Jean Todt "Today, our work centred on preparation for the race. Neither driver has yet found quite the right set up or balance on the cars. Tomorrow, in both practice and qualifying, we will use the 048C version of the engine."

Michael Schumacher "As expected, this track does not suit our cars as well as the one in Malaysia, as it has many fast corners, whereas our car tends to go better in the slower ones. The track was also very slippery today and offered less grip than at the last race. Towards the end of the afternoon session, we found quite a good set up, which is not reflected in the times, as the tyres were old by then. There is still room for improvement, so I am confident we can fight for pole tomorrow and a victory on Sunday."

Eddie Irvine "I don't think things are as bad as they look from my lap time today. My main concern was a lack of grip. In this situation it is always difficult to balance the car and I suffered with mid-corner understeer, which switched to oversteer when I put the power down on the exit. Tomorrow with a different set up and fresh tyres, I am sure I can do better."