Schumi speaks of recent Valencia test - 6th February 21:32pm GMT

"We have wrapped up three days of testing and have been able to get plenty of work done. As we all know, it rained on the first day - which was quite good for us, because we wanted to test our tyres for the wet and were therefore able to finish our complete programme. Yesterday and the day before, we had really wonderful weather and were able to take our time working on improving several things. But it wouldn't have mattered if the weather had stayed bad, because we will be testing extensively at Bahrain, so we should manage to collect enough information in good weather until the season gets underway.

All in all, I'm absolutely satisfied with where we're at. There is still no reason to be less than optimistic. Of course, we encountered a few small problems during our tests - but finding them is what testing is all about. But in general things are looking good. Renault seem to be the strongest team at this time, but Honda and ourselves are not far behind. That's my view right now.

But the almost more important subject during our days at Valencia was Valentino, who tested with us for those three days. I haven't changed my mind about him. He definitely has enough talent, and the good impression he made on me prior to this test has now been intensified as a result. But now he will focus on his preparation for the Moto-GP championship, and I will do the same: after spending the weekend with my family, I will continue testing next week in Italy."