Schumacher Says Ferrari Will Use New Car at Imola

Ferrari will definitely debut the new F2003-GA in the San Marino Grand Prix in two weeks, but rivals McLaren-Mercedes are not rushing the introduction of their own new car.

World Champion Michael Schumacher confirmed today that two F2003-GA's will be used at Imola in two weeks time, with potentially the spare car also being the new model.

But the German, who has suffered his worst start to a Formula One season after failing to finish on the podium in Australia and Malaysia, believes the F2002 which will be used in Brazil this weekend is still more than capable of winning races.

"I guess we will try to have two ready or even three," Schumacher said. "Having a new car you would love to run it because knowing it is faster you would love to have it. But I think we still have a car, the 2002 car, which is still able to win races. Fast in Australia, probably not in Malaysia but we will see."

Rivals McLaren, on the other hand have no plans to rush their new car into action following victories in the opening two Grands Prix with David Coulthard and Kimi Raikkonen taking a win apiece.

Coulthard said that the car is likely to undergo a shakedown next week, but added it will not make its debut until reliability is guaranteed.

"I think we can't be too disappointed with the start of the season, but of course you hope and believe the new car is going to be quicker and you always take pace (with a new car)," Coulthard said.

"It will be ready when it is ready and it is getting near to that time now."