Brawn Hopes to Keep Ferrari's 'Dream Team'

Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn warned rivals on Thursday that the Italian 'dream team' of him, boss Jean Todt and star driver Michael Schumacher could continue beyond 2004.

The group, developed by Todt after he arrived in 1993, has seen unprecedented success with three Constructors' Championships in the last three years. But all three men are out of contract at the end of 2004.

If success continues to come their way, however, Brawn believes it would be difficult for any of the components to move away and he sees signs that the well-gelled team will stick together.

"I think it is a very good period and if we can maintain this there is no reason to stop," said Brawn. "It is difficult to speak for the other people in the team but I know they are very happy at Ferrari.

"I hope in some way or another they can continue their involvement with Ferrari, even if it not at the same level as it is now. It is a long way ahead and we need to wait for another year or two before we decide."

Brawn admitted that Schumacher was a major part of his decision to join Ferrari, but insisted that whenever the German champion decides to retire he will not necessarily follow him away from the track.

"Michael is an important ingredient in the team but it is not solely dependant on it," he said. "Michael came to Ferrari before me. That was one of the reasons (I joined) and, for sure, it was a very strong reason. But it was not the only reason.

"I am very happy at Ferrari and 2004 is the end of my current agreement, but at the moment I see no reason why that shouldn't continue. I enjoy Ferrari a great deal, I am probably happier here than I have ever been in my career so if that continues there is no reason why I shouldn't continue."

Former champion Damon Hill suggested on Wednesday that Ferrari's controversial team tactics, which left Schumacher facing a barrage of 'boos' on the podium in Austria after being handed victory by Rubens Barrichello, could affect the German and force him into retirement.

Hill added that mounting pressures from within Ferrari could leave Schumacher happy to settle for a fifth Championship and call it a day, but Brawn laughed off those suggestions and said his driver is as enthusiastic as ever.

"Austria was a bit of a difficult time but I don't think it was enough to in any way make Michael reconsider," said Brawn. "He knows what we are doing for next year so there is absolutely no reason to think that he is going to stop. I cannot imagine it.

"Michael is reaping the rewards of his investment of the last few years and from what I know he is going to keep going for many years. I am sure there is going to come a day when he is going to say right, now is the time to stop but now I see huge enthusiasm in him."