Schumacher Backs Ferrari's Decision

World Champion Michael Schumacher has backed Ferrari's decision to use last year's car in the opening Australian Grand Prix after it was revealed there have been problems with the reliability of the new F2002.

German Schumacher set two record laps during the first three days of testing in the new car at the team's Fiorano test circuit.

But he has been less impressed with its performance at the more demanding Mugello circuit, and is happy the team have decided to err on the side of caution.

"I think it is a reasonable decision," he said. "The team can be very relaxed because last year's car is very good and very strong.

"It (the 2001 car) has been competitive in testing so there is no reason to take any silly and unnecessary risks.

"The most important thing in the first race is to finish, because points from the beginning of the season can be decisive when it comes to the end."

The Mugello track provides a more stressful test for the car than the short Fiorano circuit, and a team insider admitted there have been problems.

"We knew it could be a different story in Mugello," said the source. "We have had slight problems but also there has been very bad weather."

The revolutionary new car is suffering teething problems and Schumacher knows it is crucial to get them smoothed out as soon as possible.

"We have continued development on the F2002 so as to be ready as soon as possible with the new car," he said.

"Certainly the feeling I got from it today was positive. It is the first time we have been able to work continuously with the F2002 at this circuit."