Todt says Ferrari must keep its focus

Ferrari is currently leading the constructors' and drivers' championship with its number one driver Michael Schumacher 24 points clear of David Coulthard. McLaren, meanwhile, has struggled in the last two races with Coulthard failing to keep on terms with Ralf Schumacher's Williams and Michael's Ferrari.

However, Ferrari knows all too well about slumps in form and the Maranello team experienced a mid-season lull itself last year with Schumacher retiring from three consecutive races in France, Austria and Germany. Todt says that could easily happen again.

"I remember last year, when Ferrari was going through a difficult period," said Todt, "and this is something that can happen to anyone. The advantage that we have today is relatively important given the first half of the season, but not necessarily big enough that we cannot maintain concentration. Our margin of 24 points is only two and a half race wins and lots of things can still happen."

The marked improvement in performance from the Williams team also means McLaren and Ferrari have another contender, not only snapping at their heels, but gunning for outright victories. According to Todt this is something of a double-edged sword.

"It's good for Ferrari if Williams are ahead of McLaren," said the Frenchman. "But it's not good for Ferrari if McLaren are ahead and Williams are between us. It depends on the position of Ferrari and the position of McLaren."

The teams head to the Magny-Cours circuit for the French Grand Prix this weekend and both Ferrari and McLaren could suffer on their Bridgestone tyres after Michelin-shod teams dominated during testing at the French track in May.