Schumacher: Now is not the time to talk contracts

The German ace spoke about the re-signing of Ferrari's backroom superstars - Jean Todt, Ross Brawn, Rory Byrne and Paolo Martinelli - after testing at Mugello in Italy today (Thursday). He did admit, however, it may have an influence on whether he extends his current contract, which is due to expire at the end of 2002.

"It is an important decision for the whole team, because it guarantees stability for several years and that is fundamental if we are to start a new era," said Schumacher. "It might have an influence over a possible lengthening of my own contract with the Scuderia, but it is too early to talk about that."

Schumacher is currently in the middle of a £16 million-per-year contract with the Prancing Horse, but is thought unlikely to go and drive for another team when the squad he helped to form is still together. It might, however, cost Ferrari another £4 million a year to keep his bank balance ticking over to his content.

The three-time world champ completed a fourth day of testing at Mugello today (Thursday), logging another 35 laps on the new F2001 after an oil leak forced the test team to change an engine in the morning. He lapped in 1m24.660s after making a few set-up adjustments this afternoon.

"At the moment I am reasonably happy with the way the development of the car is progressing," he added. "Even today, despite the odd hiccup, we have accumulated further information on its handling."

Rubens Barrichello will get his first run in the F2001 tomorrow (Friday) at the picturesque Tuscany venue.