Formula 1 world champion Michael Schumacher has denied that Ferrari is hiding from its grand prix opposition by opting to test its new F2004 chassis alone at Mugello in Italy.

Unless poor weather conditions force Ferrari to change its plans (it snowed at Mugello on Thursday), the F2004 won't go head-to-head with its rivals until the opening practice session for the Australian Grand Prix on March 5. Schumacher claims this is not intentional – despite the fact that Luca Badoer has been testing a 2003 car at Imola, where the majority of the team's rivals have been running.

"To start with, we are not hiding," said Schumacher. "Teams such as Williams or McLaren can come to Italy any time they want. For us, testing at home makes sense due to the vicinity of the factory. It makes your life easier."

Despite encountering some transmission problems with the new car, Schumacher says he sees no reason not to use it from the start of the season.

"The test programme – with the usual gremlins aside – is running as planned," he said. "I detect no reason why we should not fly to Australia with this car. The car reacts as predicted to changes, it is quicker than the old model and in general reliable. What more can you ask for?"