ForeverInLoveWithJus

Ferrari have hinted that they may delay the introduction of their new Formula One car and start 2003 with last season's model.

The world champions employed the same tactic with success this season, when Michael Schumacher won the first race in a modified version of their 2001 car.

The idea is to maximise the amount of design time that can go into the new car, and benefit from the reliability of a well-tested machine early on in the year.

The first three races are all in long-haul destinations, and reliability of new cars is always an issue in the heat of Australia, Malaysia and Brazil.

Ferrari chief designer Rory Byrne said: "[The new car] will run in early February. Even if we don't race it immediately, we will ensure that it builds on our successes."

Ferrari's tactic has since been adopted by McLaren, who are not expecting to introduce their new car until either the fourth or fifth race of the season.

Byrne said that the F2003 design would be a refinement of the ultra-successful 2002 car, with which Schumacher broke a host of F1 records.

ForeverInLoveWithJus

Minardi have signed Russian Sergei Zlobin as their test driver for the 2003 Formula One season.
"We will work closely with Sergei so one day he could drive a Formula One car for us," said managing director Giancarlo Minardi.

"I can be more specific about his future in Formula One racing after we have a few tests in Valencia later this month."

The arrival of Zlobin increases the pressure on Alex Yoong.

The Malaysian driver was dropped by Minardi at the end of last season but was offered a test role within the team.


Yoong poised for Cart
Earlier this year, Zlobin became the first Russian to test an F1 car as part of a sponsorship deal with Russian gas giants Gazprom.

Minardi have yet to decide their two drivers for next season but expect to make an announcement soon.

André_ea

I doubt that it will make any differences. Their car is almost perfect.

ForeverInLoveWithJus

Exactly and I would say its hard to make a better car..

André_ea

It will be damn hard for them. I couldnt think of any major weaknesses they would have to work out.

Will be interesting to see if the other teams could really change something or if there will hardly be a difference to the old ones.

ForeverInLoveWithJus

I would say Michael runs that car..he drives it so well..

André_ea

Don't fo5rget about Montoya tho. He managed it to be first after qualifying although his car is crap

ForeverInLoveWithJus

Umm... yes I will but We will see when the season starts..

DrTagnian

I haven't kept up with this thread , but does somebody know something about the rumour that Ralf Schumacher wants to leave Williams ?

ForeverInLoveWithJus

I havent heard that..could be just a rumour..