Todt encouraged by Ferrari form

The Maranello-based squad's new F2008 has proven very strong right from the start of pre-season testing, and the team, along with McLaren, have been the pace-setters during the winter.

Todt said the team are very pleased with their current form and he is hopeful they will be able to retain last year's titles.

"Ferrari have the pursuit of victory in their DNA, so we'll try to do that again this year," Todt was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport.

"We have two excellent drivers and it looks like the car is good too.

"We are satisfied and the situation is encouraging. But we need to wait for the races, let's hope for the best."

Todt also said seven-time Michael Schumacher had given the car the thumbs-up following his first test with it in Barcelona on Monday.

"He called me on the same evening and he said he's satisfied. He told me it's an encouraging situation, so if Michael says that I can say as much myself. But let's wait."