Ferrari F2002 Information and Pictures

Maranello, 6th February - The new Formula 1, named the F2002 was launched in Maranello. At 11am, in the 'Nuova Meccanica' pavillion at Ferrari HQ in Maranello, the protagonist of the new Formula 1 season was given its official baptism. Shareholders, sponsors, dealers, journalists and, of course, the team behind the creation of the car gathered together as the star of the day was revealed on a rotating spot-lit podium.

The event opened with an address from Antonio Ghini, Director of Communication and Brand Management, who presented the first video of the 575M Maranello, the latest conception from the Prancing Horse's stable. And at the wheel of a brand new 575 the Scuderia's official drivers, Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello, made their entrance. The team's test drivers, Luca Badoer and Luciano Burti, were not able to attend due to their commitments at today's test at the Mugello circuit.

Jean Todt then mounted the podium to welcome the drivers and invited them to lift the red sheet and reveal the real protagonist of the day, the F2002. Jean Todt was the first to address the guests: "Our strength is not due to our successes but to our failures which have made us stronger," said the Managing Director of Sport, "and it is with this spirit that we prepare ourselves for the challenge of the 2002 season, knowing that our competitors will be stronger than ever. We have all the elements we need to progress but we must work hard to ensure nothing is taken for granted. I am very proud of this team, it's a winning team. Now we have to see if this new chassis is not only beautiful but is also a good race car," concluded Todt with a smile. In line with the traditional design team speeches, Ross Brawn, Rory Byrne and Paolo Martinelli, then presented in italian the principal technical characteristics of the new Ferrari.

Naturally, the Cavallino drivers also expressed their feelings and hopes for the coming season. Rubens Barrichello spoke first: "I will give and do everything I can to bring this car to victory," the Brazilian driver declared before handing the microphone to the World Champions, Michael Schumacher: "I am happy to be here", exclaimed the German driver. "The motivation and objectives are the same: we want to be World Champion again. There is nothing better than winning with Ferrari and I will do everything possible so that we can continue winning together." The presentation concluded with a speech from the President of Ferrari, Luca di Montezemolo, who thanked at length all those responsible for the new car, from its closest collaborators to the sponsors and shareholders. Paolo Fresco, President of FIAT and Paolo Cantarella, FIAT Managing Director, were also present.

"Like always this is a very important moment," President Montezemolo declared. "There are many new things this year, lots of innovations, but there are also many things that we have preserved. We are aware that we have reached the top but we are still hungry for victory. We must and will remain concentrated and humble, knowing that the competition will be difficult. But all the same we set out to win."

Forza Ferrari!

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