F1 Team Unveils Ferrari’s F2004
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Automotive News – Jan. 26, 2004 MARANELLO, Italy – Ferrari unveiled its new model for the 2004 Formula One racing season Monday, January 26th, telling rivals it is ready to extend its winning streak to a seven-time world champion status with driver Michael Schumacher. |
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The F2004, predicted again as the best Ferrari ever built, features new aerodynamics and a more powerful, enduring engine to meet new FIA rules.
General director Jean Todt said he expected a strong challenge from rival teams “that can no longer stand to see Ferrari in the lead.”
It was underlined that the longer 18-race championship schedule, with two new circuits in Bahrein and China, may pose unexpected problems as well as the single engine rule.
The presentation ceremony, conducted by chairman and managing director Luca di Montezemolo, took place at the company headquarters in Maranello, near Modena, where Ferrari assembles its racing cars and makes luxury sports cars.
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“F2004 Potential”
“Predicted again as the best Ferrari ever built… featuring new aerodynamics.” |
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Ferrari president Luca Di Montezemolo, whose team start the new season in Australia on March 7 chasing a sixth successive constructorsí title, said his team has been in the lead since 1997 “and wants to stay there.”
Ferrari officials said their new car was expected to debut in the opening race in Australia in March.
Tests will begin at the company circuit of Fiorano by this weekend, with Schumacher at the wheel.
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“F2004 is it ready?”
“Expected to debut in the opening race in Australia in March.” |
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There were no surprises with the new car, which looked very similar to last yearís, with the exception of the higher airbox and larger rear wing in accordance with new regulations.
The Italian team, the most successful ever in Formula One, clinched its fifth consecutive world manufacturers’ title last year.
Meanwhile Schumacher clinched his fourth straight world title with Ferrari, adding to the two won with Benetton. Schumacher, 35, is starting his ninth year with Ferrari, a record for a driver with the team, and is contracted to the end of 2006 along with Barrichello and core team staff.
The German driver said he expected the toughest challenge to come from McLaren.
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“F2004 Engine”
“The new Ferrari features a more powerful, enduring engine to meet new FIA rules.” |
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