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Schumacher Would Have Raced 3rd Car for Ferrari

If the International Automobile Federation (FIA) and the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA) would have allowed each team to field a 3rd car from 2010 onwards, Michael Schumacher would have undoubtedly competed for Ferrari next year.

Nothing had been discussed on the matter within the Maranello organization prior to Schu's signing with Mercedes GP, but test driver Marc Gene strongly believes the German driver left the Italian company solely because he didn't have the opportunity to race. Had the opportunity presented, there would have been no reason for him to switch sides at 41 years of age (and after 14 years with the prancing horse).

Without a doubt, it hurts us at Ferrari to see him in different colors, because of his part in our best history. I am convinced that if the regulations had allowed us to have a third car, Michael would be with us next year,” said the Spanish driver.

Ferrari's CEO Luca di Montezemolo was the only person lobbying for the “3rd car per team” idea for the 2010 season of Formula One earlier this year. This concept died before it even started to make the headlines, as most of the FOTA members, headed by Frank Williams, publicly argued against such a move. Without the unanimous vote of the FOTA, no rule could be forwarded to the FIA for implementation.

Gene admitted that Schumacher will be a tough opponent for Ferrari in the years to come, but added that the Scuderia's current lineup is more than capable of coping with that task starting 2010.

We must applaud him, fear him and – mainly – work hard to beat him. At Ferrari we are ready, nobody doubts that. Alonso and Massa make a very strong team,” added Gene.
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