Schumacher: Ferrari has moved to a ‘higher level’

The reigning world champion says the reduction in downforce has played into the hands of the Maranello team, thanks to its technical strength in depth.

"Normally it is Adrian Newey who does the best job when new rules are coming into F1," Schumacher told British national newspaper The Mail on Sunday. "But I think our team have moved the guidelines to the next, higher level."

Schumacher joked that his virtuoso performance in challenging weather conditions in the Malaysian Grand Prix was "just like driving a taxi". He says the backroom know-how of sporting director Jean Todt, technical director Ross Brawn and chief designer Rory Byrne is giving him an easy ride.

"I think stability is a key factor for Ferrari to enjoy the success we have right now," Schumacher added. "If people left it would be easy to be back where we used to be. I want to be a part of the Ferrari era. I see the possibility if we keep fighting and working as hard as we do. We know the season will become tougher."

Schumacher has warned Jenson Button that he will have to regularly beat team mate Giancarlo Fisichella if the young Briton is to remain with the German's former team, Benetton: "For Flavio [Briatore, Benetton's boss], the only thing that counts is success. As long as Jenson is faster than his team mate, he has nothing to fear or worry about. If he is slower, he'd better watch out. I think Jenson can become one of the greats. But he has to prove he can make that extra step," said Schuey.