26.01.2004 THE FERRARI F2004 LAUNCH: MICHAEL SCHUMACHER 'I AM AS MOTIVATED AS EVER'

The obvious first question for the reigning world champion at the launch of the F2004, was whether or not he could take another title this year. 'We must wait and see,' was his cautious reply, although he did admit he was happy to start this season with a brand new car.

'I know that people were expecting the new car to look different, but what matters is the result on the stopwatch,' began Schumacher. 'It does look similar to last year’s car, which if I remember correctly was quite good and won both championships! Now we must wait and see how the winter testing goes, when we will have a better indication of its potential.'

As usual, tyres will play a vital role in the outcome of the coming season and Michael is happy with the work done in this area. 'We finished last season strongly and we have just had a very good test in Barcelona,' said the German. The Ferrari man also expressed satisfaction with the change to the format for qualifying, whereby the winner of the previous race is the first driver to make a run on Saturday.

'I think it is a fairer system than last year, when as championship leader, I was nearly always first man out and had the job of 'road sweeper.' Finally, the World Number One was asked if he expected this to be his toughest season. 'The next season is always your toughest,' was his quick response. 'But I am as motivated as ever, for the simple reason that I love to race.'