Schu dismisses Briatore claims

Speaking after smashing the Jerez lap record during testing in Spain this week, Schumacher believed that Briatore's comments should not be taken too seriously because he has little doubt Ferrari can keep its advantage in 2005.

"Of course Flavio will say that," said Schumacher when asked about the comments. "But if he looks into my eyes, then he will not say the same thing that he will be champion..."

Briatore's comments came after the Chinese Grand Prix, when his Renault team lost further ground to closest rivals BAR in the battle for second place in the constructors' championship.

Speaking to Italian media, Briatore said: "I'm sure next year we will beat Ferrari. I believe that in 2005 Ferrari's domination will end.

"We will close all the gaps that are stopping us at the moment. And we won't have to wait two or three years, because already it is clear that we will have all the necessary things to beat Ferrari: engine, chassis and tyres."

Briatore plans to step down as Renault boss at the end of 2005, although his contract is due to run out in the middle of the campaign. He claims he has no plans yet for what he wants to do after Renault, but he has been linked to a possible buy-out of Cosworth with French engine specialists Mecachrome.