Todt ready for the challenge

In the press briefing after the official presentation of the F2005, Ferrari Managing Director, Jean Todt revealed that it was hoped that the new car would be ready to make its race debut at the fifth race of the season; the Spanish Grand Prix at Barcelona. "We will start testing it early next week at a venue that will depend on the weather," said Todt.

Asked if it was a disadvantage not to have the new car for the start of the season, Todt smiled and replied, "We cannot predict the result of the first four races. There are many unknown factors, like the one set of tyres for a race and so there are plenty of question marks. It is an interesting situation."

With the winter months dominated by the political rather than the sporting side of Formula 1, Todt was asked to comment on Ferrari's re-signing of the Concorde Agreement, which sets them apart from the teams associated with the GPWC.

"First I would point out that it was Paolo Cantarella (former Fiat president,) who initiated the GPWC," began Todt. "We always said that, if we could reach an agreement with the FIA, with Ecclestone, with the banks, we would do so. Only after reaching this agreement did we step out of the GPWC."

Todt also felt that Ferrari was justified in getting a better financial package than other teams. "Ferrari has always been special and is tied to F1 just as F1 is tied to Ferrari. It helped to create what F1 is today. It is like in the movies where the stars get paid more. Ferrari is a star and wants to be paid like a star. The others might be frustrated but they would demand the same if they were in our situation."

With Ferrari having dominated the 2004 season, Todt was asked why he felt this year would be particularly tough. "The other teams are very good and I respect them. They and the engine manufacturers and Bridgestone's rivals have all done a great job. Now it is up to us to provide our team with whatever is needed and make sure we are ready for the challenge."

Finally, Todt was asked if after over a decade with the Scuderia, he did not consider taking on another challenge. "I think it would be difficult to find a more complete challenge than my role here at Ferrari," said the Frenchman.

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