Ferrari duo share their joy over new deals

Ferrari announced yesterday (Tuesday) that reigning world champion Schumacher will stay with the team until 2004, while Barrichello gets a one-year extension to his contract that was due to expire at the end of this season.

"I have often said before how well I get on here at Ferrari and that, for me, the Scuderia is like a second family," said Michael. "I am very happy to have prolonged my stay by another two years and I hope that this continuation with the team will bring plenty of successes."

Schumacher said that the decision in February by Ferrari's 'dream team' backroom staff was a big factor in his choice to stay at Maranello.

"I had little doubt that I would do it [stay with the team], once Jean Todt, Ross Brawn, Paolo Martinelli and Rory Byrne had extended their contracts. The discussions took place in the same positive atmosphere which has typified our relationship, and we soon reached an agreement," he said.

Barrichello was equally ecstatic with his continued presence in the scarlet squad for 2002, not least after recent speculation that he would lose his drive at the end of the season.

"I'm very pleased," said the Brazilian. "There were a lot of rumours about my contract, but I knew everyone - from the president, Mr Montezemolo, and Jean Todt down - inside the Ferrari family were very relaxed about the situation. I think both sides are happy - both myself and Ferrari."