Ralf expecting hard work

As Ferrari puts the pressure on the rest of the Formula One grid, Ralf Schumacher is expecting a lot of hard work will be necessary to catch up with the Maranello squad. The Williams driver has had a tough start to the 2004 season, scoring seven points in three races with a best finish of fourth place. Williams is currently third in the constructors' standings, behind leaders Ferrari and second placed Renault.

Ralf Schumacher.

Photo by Brousseau Photo.

"The situation is different to what it was last year when we were able to make it from zero to hero in a very short period of time," said Schumacher, according to the team website. "This year we will have to work hard to close the gap step by step, but I'm sure that at the end of the day we will make it."

"Those who believe that we simply have to click our fingers to close the gap to Ferrari are in for a disappointment. On the one hand, Michael will not rest on his laurels, and on the other hand there is a lot of refinement work waiting for us."

It's difficult to get a clear indication of the balance of power from the early long-distance races, although Ferrari is obviously still the one to beat. Williams, like some other teams, is expecting improvement to come at the next race, the San Marino Grand Prix on April 25th, but Ralf predicts no drastic change just yet.

"This will take some time," he said of attaining significant results. "On the other hand I have to say that -- to be honest -- we haven't got too much time. That said I am convinced that we are moving in the right direction."

Michael Schumacher believes that the competition will catch up, as Ferrari doesn't have as much room for potential development as rivals do. "I guess we have less margin to improve our car, though we will keep on trying, compared to the others," said Schumacher Senior after the Bahrain GP. "We deeply believe that the others will catch up strongly and we'd better be prepared."