Zoom Ferrari hard at work on the F2008 and F2009

While preparing for this weekend's inaugural Grand Prix around the street of Valencia and the remaining races, this time of year also sees work intensify for Ferrari on the 2009 project.

"We are entering the production phase for the main components of our 2009 car; parts such as the chassis and gearbox," reveals Ferrari Technical Director Aldo Costa. "Ferrari has the ability and resources to work on next year's car, without having to relax for one moment on continuing the development of the F2008 in a championship that is proving to be very tight between ourselves and our usual opponents."

"However, it is a very demanding challenge," Costa admitted. "Although it is a challenge we have faced many times before, it is particularly tough this time, as there are so many new elements coming into play for next season, such as the return to slick tyres and the introduction of the KERS system. This makes the puzzle more complicated than ever, which is why we have to operate as efficiently as possible in terms of time management, commitment and energy, as we are now in a delicate phase with no way to recover from any mistakes."

"One step in the wrong direction could prove very costly," he concluded.

E.A. © CAPSIS International