The days when Ferrari's number two driver could never win are over, Rubens Barrichello said on Wednesday.

Brazilian driver Barrichello has been in the shadow of world champion Michael Schumacher since joining the Italian team in 2000 but last season won four races ahead of his normally dominant German team mate.

"I have changed the idea that Ferrari's second driver could never win and I am happy -- that was my real fight," Barrichello told a press conference at the Dolomite ski resort.

The Brazilian said he had found it tough when he first joined Ferrari but believes he has answered those who believed he would never be able to flourish alongside Schumacher.

"It was difficult for me and I was under pressure. I was told I would never win with Michael, that (Ferrari team chief Jean) Todt was very linked to Michael but that has passed, I have overcome it and I have found a very friendly environment," said Barrichello.

The Brazilian said he believed he had a realistic chance of winning next season but was well aware of the strength of Schumacher.