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5 January 2004
MUNICH – Ralf Schumacher is aiming to win his brother Michael’s world championship title this year, he told the German Bild newspaper.
The younger of the two racing driver brothers said that winning the title was his first priority, more important even than negotiating an extension of his contract that expires at the end of the year.
“That we have decided to continue our negotiations in April was my decision. I want to concentrate on winning races. We will then always be able to reach an agreement if the conditions are right.”
The 28-year-old has put a lot of pressure on himself for the new season, which begins on 7 March. “Yes of course we have to go for the title this year. That has to be our – and my – goal. If that is not our aim, we have a problem.”
Schumacher said that the new car which will be presented for the first time on Monday gives him reason to be optimistic.
“The FW26 is a revolutionary car. It even looks different from what we are used to in Formula One. The aerodynamics are totally new and unlike last season, we know that everything works in the new car.”
Schumacher predicted problems for his brother’s team, Ferrari. “If they only want to present their new car at the end of January, it will be very tight. Especially, if they want to drive the new car in the first race in Melbourne.”
Schumacher said he was disappointed that the season was not starting immediately. “We would be able to compete fully with Ferrari and McLaren if the season was to start now,” he said.
DPA
Subject: German news