Canada Preview Quotes: Ferrari

Michael Schumacher: "Montreal is like a 'stop and go' circuit, full of chicanes that test the engines and brakes to the full. You have to brake often and then accelerate sharply and this, clearly, stresses the tyres. Our experience will count a lot in this regard, as will the tests we have carried out. Our car has excellent aerodynamics and this will be a big help on this type of track. For me, "Gilles Villeneuve" is almost a city circuit because it doesn’t have many of the characteristics of a permanent one. It is not possible to make errors as these could easily lead to contact with the barriers and spell the end of the race. I am really motivated for this race as I can try to overtake Raikkonen in the championship seeing as there is only a four point gap. To win in Canada you need a good car, good tyres and a good engine. We have every chance of being successful."

Rubens Barrichello: "Last year, I finished third in Montreal, when the Safety Car interfered slightly with my two-stop strategy. It is an unusual circuit and although it has some similarities with the last round in Monaco, as it is not a permanent track, the barriers are very close and it is located in a city, it has a completely different atmosphere. It is very relaxed compared to Monaco and that makes a nice change. I actually like the track and I think it gives the fans plenty of excitement as there are good opportunities to overtake. The Canadian fans are really enthusiastic and there is a very big Italian contingent cheering us on. I always get a great reception here which is a boost.

"As for the circuit itself, the car set-up has to be a compromise here as the straights are very fast, but most of the corners, including a couple of hairpins, are quite slow. The driver is always kept busy and the layout of the track means it is tough on tyres and brakes as well. Generally, it has a reputation as something of a car breaker, but I can face the weekend with confidence, given that the F2003-GA is proving reliable and the new aero package produced good results in the Monza test. The new qualifying format should be interesting here. As the track is not used much during the year, the grip level improves constantly throughout the weekend, but it is also very susceptible to change according to the temperature during the session. It should be fascinating and might produce some unusual results."