JANUARY 2, 2002

Bad news for the youngsters

THE growing ranks of young talent emerging in Formula 1 such as Jenson Button, Nick Heidfeld, Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa have been given notice that their rise to the top will be no easier after 2004 when Michael Schumacher's current Ferrari contract runs out.

Schumacher has dismissed the idea that he will bow out of the sport at the end of his current deal, saying: "I can't see myself stopping then. Ever since I was a child I've loved racing - it's what I love so I will keep going until it's not fun for me any more. Right now it is still bringing me a lot of pleasure."