A mass overhaul of the Scuderia following Schumacher's retirement has seen technical - and tactical - director Ross Brawn take a year out, while the engineering department has had a shake-up to take into account the break-up of the so-called 'dream team' built around the German. Despite the potential for disruption, however,
Ferrari has been at the head of the timesheets throughout testing - although it is
Felipe Massa rather than Raikkonen that has been posting the times.
"I would have to say we are ready to start the season," the Brazilian insisted, "For sure, testing is testing and racing is racing, but I can say that I am very happy with the way things have gone. I am very familiar with the car and I know the team personnel and how they all work and everything is going pretty well. Some people have been making something of the fact that, mostly, I have been fractionally quicker than Kimi, but I do not see it as anything significant. Kimi was still learning and getting to know the team. We will see what happens in Melbourne, as this is the moment that the answer comes. At this point last year, many people were sceptical about my ability but, now, twelve months on, with wins and pole positions in the bag, I think I have changed a lot. I am stronger mentally, I have improved a lot and I have much more experience. I can still improve some more, but this is a great time for me and a great moment in my career."
The opening race of the year will be the first missed by Schumacher since the German broke his leg at
Silverstone in 1999, and gives Ferrari a whole new outlook.
"Melbourne will mark a new chapter in the extraordinary history of the Scuderia," chief executive Jean Todt agreed, "After eleven years, Michael will not be behind the wheel, and now it is the turn of Felipe and Kimi 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."
Schumacher wished the team well before it left for Australia, but refused to say if Ferrari was the favourite to win.
"I have the feeling that we are very well prepared for the first race and that we should do well," he stated, "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."
Honda – Jenson Button (#7), Rubens Barrichello (#8):
Without frontrunning testing performances to shout about, Honda created headlines in other ways instead, unveiling its 2007 contender with no visible sponsorship and a livery consisting of a map of the world, in an effort to raise awareness of environmental issues.
