Ferrari Celebrate 'Perfect Season' in Monza

World Champions Ferrari celebrated one of their best ever seasons in Formula One at Monza today, where the team's three drivers - World Champion Michael Schumacher, Rubens Barrichello and test driver Luca Badoer - entertained a crowd of thousands of Tifosi who came to show their respect for the Scuderia.

In front of Ferrari's entire team and management, including president Luca di Montezemolo and sporting director Jean Todt, the three drivers did a few laps and stopped for a demonstration pitstop. The grand finale of the demonstration included tyre burnouts, spins and doughnuts in front of the enthusiastic crowd.

Schumacher: the perfect end to the season

"I am very happy to be here," Schumacher told the reporters at Monza. "2001 was an extraordinary year and this party is the perfect end to it."

Speaking of the 2001 season, the German said: "It was a pretty tough Championship and I lived through a period when my morale took a knock. But I had time to get back on form and now I am much less tired than I was towards the end of the season."

When asked about his prospects for next year, Schumacher said: "For now I am only thinking about going on holiday. As for next year, we will wait and see. What I can definitely say for now, is that I'm sure we will have two rivals, two teams, one silver and one blue and white."

Barrichello: Happy to be here

"I am happy to be here and the fans gave me a fantastic welcome," said Barrichello. "Everyone has been really nice.

"It has been a positive year. Compared with 2000, I had a greater chance of winning and I think I have shown that the team can count on me. After the Hungarian Grand Prix, I had even more support from the team and my performance improved. Now, Ferrari knows that if Michael has a problem, I am there for them.

"I am proud to be his teammate, 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."

Barrichello also revealed he rates Williams rookie driver Juan Pablo Montoya as the revelation of the 2001 season. "At first he made a few mistakes, but he has improved a lot," the Brazilian said.

Barrichello said his plans for the next few months are simple. "I'll be working at being a dad, trying to spend as much time as possible with my family. But, I won't let myself go completely, because being fit is so important in our sport, so I am sure I will at least play some golf. Becoming a father is great and has motivated me even more. The one big change is that, now, once the race is over I want to hurry home to see Eduardo!"