We can match new Ferrari, says Ralf

Ralf Schumacher is convinced that Williams-BMW can compete with Ferrari for the world championship despite Michael Schumacher's debut victory in the new F2002 at Interlagos

On the evidence of the first two days at Interlagos, a Williams-BMW/Michelin win was widely anticipated but Michael Schumacher surprised everyone by utilising a one-stop strategy, a tactic many thought the Bridgestone tyre incapable of, to win the race.

Schumacher Jr, however, refused to be despondent about his team's prospects over the rest of the year, especially at circuits where the ambient temperature will be much reduced.

"I must say that according to comments from Ferrari and in the press, we were expecting the new F2002 to be a big step," Ralf admitted. "It has been a step but not as big as expected. I'm full of hope that we can go to Imola, where we won last year, and have a very good and close race."

Michael Schumacher himself conceded: "Imola is another one where it's going to be a difficult race. But this one (Brazil) wasn't luck, we worked hard for it. We had the new car and a new Bridgestone tyre and together the package was good enough to win the race.

"That wasn't the case last year and so we seem to be in better shape than 12 months ago, honestly."