London, June 10: Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher has extended his contract with Ferrari until 2006. The team's sporting director Jean Todt has also pledged his future to the team for the same length of time. The German driver, who is searching for his sixth world title, had hinted recently that he may retire after 2004. The rest of the team behind Schumacher's success will also stay in place until the end of 2006 - technical director Ross Brawn, engine director Paolo Martinelli, chief designer Rory Byrne and head of engine design Gilles Simon. "I love my sport and I feel extremely comfortable with Ferrari," said Schumacher. "Everything spoke in favour of extending my contract to 2006. The fact that Jean Todt and the rest of the team leaders have also decided to stay until 2006 made my own decision even easier. "To be able to work in such a team, with such good friends, and hopefully with a lot more success to come, is a great pleasure. "We have exciting years ahead of us and I'm looking forward to the challenges to come. "Ferrari has become something of a second family to me and I am proud of being able to remain in such wonderful company." Frenchman Todt has been at the helm of Ferrari throughout their recent run of success which includes the past four constructors' titles. Schumacher, the most successful driver in Ferrari's history, is four points behind McLaren's Finnish driver Kimi Raikkonen in this season's championship. The 34-year-old joined Ferrari in 1996 after a successful spell with Benetton-Ford which saw him win his first two titles. He has been world champion for three consecutive seasons. Bureau Report