The past few races have brought mixed results for the Scuderia Ferrari. After an encouraging return from the German Grand Prix at Hockenheim and, above all, the showing at the GP of Hungary, Istanbul did not bring any points. "It really was our worst performance of the season and, I would say, our worst for a long time. It was a huge disappointment after Budapest and the potential shown", declared Michael without mincing his words. "After Hungary we thought that the season could still turn in our favour. We thought we could get back to the top but the race in Turkey was a real setback".

The next race is at Monza, a meet in which Ferrari traditionally performs well. "We are mentally strong at home. We will not be subdued so easily. We have enjoyed fantastic success over recent years and one difficult season will not cause us too many problems. We are all still motivated and focused. We will work hard to get back to the top. Getting back to our best is all that interests us", continued Schumacher. "Unlike previous years when we had much higher aims, this year we have lower objectives.

Last week's tests were an improvement but I can't say that we are going for a podium or that we will repeat our showing at Hungary. We can still compete for points and, even if this cannot be considered our real aim, it is a necessary step in getting back to the top". The seven-time world champion tested at Monza twice last week and tried to perfect the tyres and the aerodynamics.
 

“If I think about the state in which find ourselves at Monza this year, and that in which we were last year, there is a huge difference”, admitted the seven-time world champion. "Last year we knew that we already had both world titles in the bag. This time around we are not in such a fortunate position and the chances of winning the title are remote. Still, it is our home race. Even though our current results are not up to those of the past, we will go into the race with the same spirit and motivation of the past few years and we are certain that our fans will realise this. Is it not the case that our true supporters will stick by us in difficult times? Our fans were very encouraging during last week’s tests I was very pleased at their enthusiasm. We promise to do our best for them this weekend and give our all”.

“After the race in Turkey our expectations were dimmed but we have done better in testing. I think we can get amongst the points and even make the podium”, mused Schumacher as he offered a race prediction. “However, it will only be clear once we are on the track on Friday, as we discovered last year, and then we will see how the weekend goes. As I have said, this is a very important race for us and we, by nature, enjoy a good battle.