Michael Schumacher's comments, following Friday's two free practice sessions, just about summed up the feeling in the Ferrari garage: "We are not looking too competitive here," said the German.

Those Ferrari fans who believe that the Italian team is simply playing its cards close to its chest, or sand-bagging, will be further disheartened by, Melbourne winner, Giancarlo Fisichella's comments.

Asked if he thought Schumacher could begin his much anticipated fight-back, here in Montreal, the Italian was quick to respond: "I don't think so," he told reporters.

"I was behind him on the long runs," the Renault driver continued, "I was catching him and I was about a second quicker a lap. When I was behind him he was struggling with the grip on the rear end, in braking he was not so aggressive and even into the corner wasn't quick enough.

"I think Ferrari are still struggling here," he added. "But that's not bad news for us."