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FERRARI
TEAM PROFILE
The Italian superpower's superiority will be stronger. Daunting, considering last year they enjoyed their most successful season. Gunning for a record fifth consecutive constructors' title, Ferrari will change to their new F-2003 car during the season, and it will take over the mantle as their best from last season's model.
Fuelled by a $US440million budget, driver Michael Schumacher, along with team principal Jean Todt, technical director Ross Brawn, designer Rory Byrne and co-driver Rubens Barrichello represent the best and most professional outfit in the business. The formidable Ferrari have their drivers contracted until next year at least and there is no evidence they are becoming complacent. The best around
F1 debut: 1950
Races: 670
Wins: 159
Pole positions: 158
Constructors' titles: 12
Drivers' titles: 12
Best finish: 1st
Engine: Ferrari
Tyres: Bridgestone
Team principal: Jean Todt
DRIVERS
# 1 Michael Schumacher
Short odds to become the first person to win six world championships. He is the ultimate combination of talent and technical know-how
Nationality/Age: German/34
F1 debut: 1991 (Spa)
F1 races: 178
Wins: 64
Last season finish: 1st
2003 prediction: 1st
# 2 Rubens Barrichello
The Brazilian has mastered the art of playing back-up to Schumacher. Start-ing his fourth year with the team, he is bound to build on his five wins
Nationality/Age: Brazilian/30
F1 debut: 1993 (Kyalami)
F1 races: 164
Wins: 5
Last season finish: 2nd
2003 prediction: 2nd
MCLAREN MERCEDES
TEAM PROFILE
Tipped to offer Ferrari stern opposition.
Their new car, MP4-18, like so many others on the grid, is inspired by the Ferrari with similar gearbox and small rear-end. While the finishing touches are being put on the new car, a tweak- ed version of the old model complete with the latest tyres and modified engine has been impressive in testing.
McLaren also have a history of performing well when technical rule changes have been brought in due to the shrewd work of technical director Adrian Newey. The England-based team have been a disappointment in recent years, though, there is no denying their pedigree. Through the late 1980s-early 90s they were the dominant force, courtesy of drivers Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost
F1 debut: 1966
Races: 543
Wins: 135
Pole positions: 112
Constructors' titles: 8
Drivers' titles: 12
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