Michael Schumacher left for Melbourne on Friday following the presentation of the F2005. The World Champion wanted to be prepared for this year's first GP, which takes place in Melbourne on Sunday. The chilly European temperatures were a major factor in this decision as Michael has to adapt to the warmer Australian climate, and also the time difference.

Also among the reasons for leaving early was the desire to get the season underway. "Finally we are getting started; at last all the speculation will come to an end. Each year is the same: everyone has an opinion after the winter testing but no-one knows exactly how things will turn out. In Melbourne we will see how things really stand and we will not be able to evaluate the work we have done before then. I can't wait to find that out and I am looking forward to getting onto the track and race against the other guys," he declared before boarding his private jet.

The commonest topic of discussion in recent weeks has been the presentation of the F2005 and the fact that Ferrari has opted to begin the year with a modified version of last year's model, the F2004M. It is a decision that Michael fully supports: "For sure, this could be a disadvantage in the first few races but we believe that it is the best thing to do, otherwise we would not have decided to do it," he said.

"We will not allow anybody to alter our opinion. We are certain that taking more time to develop the car is the right approach. This season will be longer than ever and we take this into account when considering a challenge for the title. We will have a good car for four races and, in the subsequent fifteen, a superb car. If we had not taken this decision we would have to make constant modifications during the season. I think that many others would want to have our prospects...

"I really want to find out who will be the best," he continued. "I would not to too surprised if we do well right from the start. As I have said though, Renault and Mercedes made the best impression during the winter tests”.

Michael will take part in a press conference organised by Shell late on Wednesday morning. On Thursday he will participate in a game of beach volleyball for Vodafone, before the official FIA press conference to open the new season.

"The time has come," declared Michael. "I can't wait and am already excited."