Ferrari starting new era without Schumi at Australia

After yesterday's single-seaters were put through their paces at Fiorano by Luca Badoer, they were transported to Munich. There they were loaded onto a cargo plane for Melbourne where they will compete in the opening Formula 1 world championship race on 18 March.

Back at the Gestione Sportiva headquarters in Maranello, the final meetings were held ahead of the first transfer of the season. "Melbourne will mark a new chapter in the extraordinary history of the Scuderia", began Ferrari's Chief Executive, Jean Todt. "After eleven years, Michael Schumacher will not be behind the wheel. Now it is the turn of Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen to fly the flag. We have been working as hard as ever over the past few months but we will only know what condition we are in after Saturday's qualifying session". Michael Schumacher also took part in the meeting and personally wished the team well before they leave for Australia. "I have the feeling that we are very well prepared for the first race and that we should do well", stated Michael. "I cannot wait for the championship to begin as I think it will be very close and exciting. Now all that I can do is cross my fingers and wish Ferrari the best of luck".