Byrne warns against complacency

The South African, one of the masterminds behind Ferrari's return to champioship winning form, believes this year's success will push the outfit on to greater success next season.

"I think the biggest thing has been how the team has worked, and how consistent we've been," Byrne said of 2001, when Michael Schumacher and the team were able wrap up the drivers' and constructors' titles as early as August. "It's been well over 30 races since we've been off the podium. It's been fantastic.

"In those conditions it's much easier to keep yourself motivated, so it's been a wonderful season really. We're still improving. We did a better job this year than last year. One thing's for sure - we can't afford to be complacent, so you can bet we're going to be pushing hard next year as well."

Ferrari has already indicated that there is no chance of the team sitting on its laurels. The new car will have radical differences from this year's F1-2001 and is expected to include new innovations. "We've pushed the boat out pretty far," said Byrne.

For a very special and exclusive feature on Ferrari, see this week's AUTOSPORT magazine, on sale on Thursday.