Barrichello keen to do his bit at Ferrari

The Brazilian had to play second fiddle to team mate Schumacher for much of the season as the German took his fourth world title. Then to make matters worse, despite his best efforts Barrichello failed to beat McLaren's David Coulthard to second place in the championship.

Barrichello only had to move over for his team mate once during the year, at the Austrian Grand Prix to hand over second place, but at the time he was upset at having to do so. However, Rubens insists he feels better about his place in the Italian team.

"Now, Ferrari knows that if Michael has a problem, I am there for them," said Barrichello at the Scuderia's end of season party at Monza last weekend. "I am proud to be his team mate, even if it is not always easy from a psychological point of view.

"But I am determined to do my bit. Compared with last year, I feel a lot more part of the team. When I get to a track, be it for a test or a race, the atmosphere is really good."