Good omen for 2004

By Andrew Hooper
October 22 2003

	Good omen for 2004
	For BMW WilliamsF1 driver Ralf Schumacher the 2003 Formula One season was one where, despite the teams failure to secure the Constructors title, he was to feel satisfied with the performance of the team. The team would finish second in the Constructors championship and Juan Pablo Montoya and Ralf would finish third and fifth in the Drivers Championship rankings. Ralf believes that this seasons performance has put them in a good position to commence the 2004 season strongly. On the BMW Motorsport web site Ralf spoke of the 2003 season. He said: "It is said that a team can only beat Ferrari if the team is on the same level at the end of the season before. I claim that we are already better than Ferrari. A good omen for 2004." Ralf also spoke of his satisfaction with the way that the team took a car, the FW25, and turned it into a championship contender. Ralf added: "The successful development of a winner's car as it was done by our team is probably unique in Formula 1, because it happened within one season. The entire team deserves extra praise. With it, the foundations are laid for next year. Be sure, BMW, Williams as well as Michelin will each further develop their parts to maintain our competitiveness." As for his views on the changes to the rules for the 2004 season Ralf supported them. He said: "I liked the rule changes. I had great fun in the qualifying, but I don't know if it was the same for the spectators. To see only one car on the track is probably not really enjoyable, however, they are to change it for next year."