FEBRUARY 9, 2001

If they stay, then I stay, hints Schumacher

FERRARI's Michael Schumacher has hinted that Wednesday's confirmation that Jean Todt and the Ferrari design team will remain at Maranello until 2004 has strengthened the chances of him remaining with the Italian marque.

Speaking after testing at the Mugello circuit, the German said: "It might have an influence over a possible lengthening of my own contract with the Scuderia.

"It is an important decision for the whole team, because it guarantees stability for several years and it's fundamental if we are to start a new era."

Things weren't all clicking into place, however, during testing at Mugello, where Schumacher's car suffered an oil leak. This meant an engine change was needed, and the German's day was cut down to 35 laps, his quickest being one minute and 24.660 seconds.