DECEMBER 15, 2000
Ferrari president Montezemolo wants two more titles
FERRARI president Luca di Montezemolo has declared that he wants two more world titles from Michael Schumacher before the German retires.
Defining Schumacher as one of the best drivers in the world, on a par with Niki Lauda, Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna, Di Montezemolo has once again confessed his respect for the three-time world champion.
"I like Michael a lot and I will do everything possible for our collaboration to continue after his contract expires in 2002," declared the Ferrari president.
"He is the best driver I have ever seen, and I expect him to win the Drivers' title in the next two seasons."
A bonding relationship with the fans has always been a problem for Schumacher, but Di Montezemolo said that the important thing was that the German driver continues to win races.
He added: "The most important thing for me is that Schumacher is correct, drives fast, is close to the team and wins races. I do not care about the effect he has on other people and whether he appears to be arrogant or not."
Montezemolo also made a gesture of sportsmanship towards Ferrari's rivals McLaren-Mercedes, who narrowly lost out to the Italian manufacturer in this year's Constructors' battle.
He said: "I respect their performances and results. It is a great honour for Ferrari to have defeated a team like McLaren-Mercedes on the track."