di Montezemolo's confidence will require both Massa and Raikkonen to be on top of their game at the same time, something that has rarely been the case in 2008. And, with the Finn now 27 points adrift of championship leader Hamilton, more than a little teamwork will be needed too as the Briton can afford to finish one place behind Massa in the remaining three races and still take the title.

"I hope Massa and Raikkonen pull a 1-2 in the remaining three races and, in any case, that they finish ahead of McLaren," he insisted, "The car is the best one around, Massa is the best and I hope Raikkonen can show his world champion class in the last few races. It was clear throughout the weekend that our car was the best one and, when the car was working well, Massa made a fantastic qualifying lap, proving his form is the best amongst all the drivers in the championship."

And with regard to Raikkonen now having to play second fiddle to the Brazilian?

"That's obvious," the president claimed, "We have gone through very rough times, but all drivers know they must race for their team. Then, we'll see what happens at the end."