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Australian Grand Prix 3rd-6th March 2005 - Ferrari Friday Press Release

Length: 5.303 km
Number of Laps: 58 (307.574 Km)
Best Lap: M. Schumacher - 1'24''215 (2004, Ferrari)
Record Pole: M. Schumacher - 1'24''408 (2004, Ferrari)
2004 Pole: M. Schumacher - 1'24''408 (Ferrari)
2004 Podium: M. Schumacher - R. Barrichello - F. Alonso

Jean Todt:
"The first day of the first Grand Prix of the season was different to usual for various reasons. First and foremost, the championship starting today is the longest in the history of Formula 1. Then there is the introduction of new technical and sporting regulations - one engine for two Grands Prix, one set of tyres for qualifying and the race, among the most important changes- which have given a different flavour to what we were used to seeing on a Friday last year. There has been an immediate effect as a result of the engine rule, with all the teams doing less laps. These three days are very important because, for the first time since winter testing, we will get a reasonably clear picture of the pecking order between the teams. Unlike our rivals, we decided to come to Australia with an updated version of last year's car, the F2004 M, preferring to take as much time as possible in the design phase of the F2005, which was launched exactly a week ago in Maranello. Tyres will play a decisive role and we know we can count on a great partner in Bridgestone, in whom we have total confidence."

Michael Schumacher:
"It is always a nice moment to be back on track for the start of a new season. I am quite happy with this first day. We nearly completed our full programme although I had a small electrical problem in the morning, which meant I had to pit earlier than expected. It was fixed very quickly, so we did not lose much time. In my view, we have enough information to make our tyre choice. It looks as though our pre-season idea of who would be our main opposition was pretty accurate, although I was surprised at the pace of the Red Bull and Sauber cars."

Rubens Barrichello:
"I am happy with the situation although it is very difficult to understand everyone's true pace. Tomorrow, we have a qualifying session on low fuel, so it is possible some people were already trying that configuration today. I had a slight problem with the balance of the car, a bit of traffic and I also went off the track. I expect to be looking better tomorrow."

Ross Brawn:
"This was the first day of running, getting used to the new format. It seems that everyone was following quite similar programmes, with not much running in the morning and a reasonable programme in the afternoon. We did more laps on one type of tyre than the other, but I think we have enough information to make a judgment for tomorrow. The cars are handling quite well and there have been no major problems. We are quite pleased with the work we have done and the position we are in."

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