Munich, June 19: Although Michael Schumacher took over the lead in the formula one driver's title at the Canadian grand prix, he said Ferrari still needs to improve.
"We have to get better this season and in every area. One can always improve! In every way! If we didn't believe that, Ferrari wouldn't have come this far", wrote the five-time world champion in Sportbild magazine, whose latest issue hit the newstands yesterday.
After a slow season start, Schumacher's victory in Montreal pushed him past Mercedes driver Kimi Raikkonen with 54 points to 51 halfway through the F1 season. But the German expressed doubt about another title being a sure thing against stiffer competition on the circuit. "We'll just have to wait and see if it's enough for the title", Schumacher said.

Schumacher and Ferrari have not been able to repeat the feat of last season when they ran away with the title, showing such complete domination of F1 many complained the sport had grown boring.

"Naturally, its different for me now compared to last year", the German said. "But we can't make the mistake and act like I always ran away out front. I remember many years where it was the other way around".

Schumacher recently extended his contract with Ferrari until 2006. The German said he wouldn't have done so if he didn't expect the Italian team to remain at the top.

Bureau Report