Ferrari boss slams Hungary showing

The reigning constructors' champions had a terrible time at the Hungaroring. Michael Schumacher could only qualify and finish eighth, allowing rivals Juan Pablo Montoya and Kimi Raikkonen to close dramatically in the points standings. Meanwhile, Rubens Barrichello crashed out of fourth place in the race when his F2003-GA suffered a major rear suspension failure.

"This is a crucial time for Ferrari, as our competitors, denied victory for several years, are very strong," said Di Montezemolo. "But a performance and incidents like those we witnessed at Hungary must never be repeated and we are all agreed on this."

However Di Montezemolo, who attended a post-race meeting at Ferrari's Maranello factory yesterday (Monday), was quick to reaffirm his faith in the team, which has won the last four constructors' titles and the last three drivers' crowns.

"I know I can count on a team which has always reacted without panic in difficult times, working flat out to win," he said. "I know we have the best driver in the world in Michael, who still leads the championship and a team-mate like Rubens who even yesterday, whilst still in the race, showed his true worth.

"We ask our technical partners to put in an extraordinary effort to respond to the strong competition in order to be as competitive as possible. It is a crucial moment for Ferrari on the eve of the last three races of the season. In Monza I want to see a return to winning form for the Ferrari-Bridgestone tandem, which has won seven world titles and 45 Grands Prix from 1999 until now."