Schumacher gives his backing - 11th February 21:05pm GMT

Michael Schumacher joined in with Rubens Barrichello today and gave his backing to Ferrari and stated that they aren't in trouble.

Michael told Gazzetta dello Sport: “May I remind you about last year? Back then we weren't looking too good in Valencia, and Jerez as well, but coming to Melbourne it was extremely different.

“Last year we saw teams which were not so strong at the beginning, like BAR, caught up and overtook the others at the end.

“So all in all I think what we see now is an indication, but no guarantee. Therefore I am hoping it will be the same again and I do not have to worry.”

Michael was also asked about the rivals: “Our opponents are very strong at the moment, especially Renault and McLaren. They are consistently strong, so it looks like they will be the biggest opponents.”