Schu ready to hit title trail

Schumacher believes Ferrari is in great shape as he bids to defend his title for a fourth consecutive year.

"We tested a lot, but I have to say that I can't wait to get onto the track and race," said Schumacher. "I am pleased that the season is about to start. Preparation is fundamental but, obviously, we want to test ourselves against the other teams and racing is the only way. The stopwatch is important but racing is something else.

"We are conscious and respect the strengths of the other teams as we are of our own strengths. We enjoy challenges, we've never turned away from one and will not do so now. We're very well prepared and we have the desire to win and so I don't see why we can't aim to win both world titles."

Schumacher admitted that the competition for his crown will be intense, and picked his own favourites following the winter testing war.

"Williams-BMW and Renault could be the trickiest opponents," he predicted. "Their results have been good right from the beginning and I have to say that they have impressed in this winter period where their testing results have been good."

On the subject of McLaren, however, Michael landed the first psychological blow of the season, suggesting the its lack of testing form will be reflected in the races too.

"That's just it: I referred to them [his main rivals] without forgetting [McLaren]," he said. "Ourselves, we haven't done too badly [in testing].

"I personally believe that each driver from the four strongest teams has a good chance. I won't name names now as it is too early. Every driver wants to win; it is the nature of our job, and it's true for all of us. The closer the title is, the tougher the battle becomes."