Schumacher predicts exciting race

With FIA President Max Mosley hosting a one man show in yesterday afternoon's official press conference, the journalists flocked to the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro media bus to talk to Michael Schumacher about his expectations for this ...

With FIA President Max Mosley hosting a one man show in yesterday afternoon's official press conference, the journalists flocked to the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro media bus to talk to Michael Schumacher about his expectations for this weekend.

Michael Schumacher.

Photo by Brousseau Photo.

"We have always gone well here at Imola in the past, so I hope that situation repeats itself this year," began the upbeat world champion. But what of the past three races? Any regrets? "Of course," was Michael's blunt and honest reply. "I would wish to have more points."

On the subject of the new points system, which now goes down to eighth place with only two points separating first and second place, the German felt this had good and bad points. "If you have a reliable car, it is now easier to pick up points at each race, but it is harder to build up a big lead by winning."

Michael and team-mate Rubens Barrichello will continue to use the modified F2002 this weekend and Schumacher once again stressed his support for this decision. "As I have said before, the F2002 is competitive and reliable," he repeated. "The F2003 has the potential to be quicker, but it is just not ready yet."

With no Ferrari wins so far this season, there is some concern that the crowd at Imola might not be as big as in the past few years. "I think the tifosi should come this weekend," urged Schumacher. "They will see an exciting race, we enjoy their support and we have always performed well in the past."