Abu Dhabi: Michael Schumacher's legendary spell with Ferrari that saw him storm into the record books with an unprecedented five consecutive world drivers' titles has taught the German enough to know the Italian car manufacturers will be back challenging for top honours next season.
Ferrari endured a miserable time on the track this year by their own high standards finishing fourth in the constructors' championship while 2007 champion Kimi Raikkonen was their best driver in sixth.
But in an exclusive interview with XPRESS, the most successful driver in Formula One history said: "I really think it was the right decision to concentrate quite early on next year's performance.
"This year we clearly were not competitive. And as I've said so often, I strongly believe in Ferrari's team spirit, fighting power and professional experience. I am convinced they will be back in the fight next year."
Ferrari will be looking to Fernando Alonso to help them return to the podium on a regular basis in 2010 and asked if he sees a bit of himself in the Spaniard who, like Schumacher, arrives at Ferrari as a double world champion, he said: "Everybody in this field is his own person and has his own style. He certainly is a very strong driver, and I am sure Ferrari will help him with anything to build a strong partnership between him and us.
"As for what comes after, we will see. There are other strong drivers in the starting field, so there might be a lot of competition. I am looking forward to watching it."
So was he a touch envious not to be zooming around the Yas Marina circuit with the other drivers? "No, in the end, not. These are the circles of life you know.
"I am retired. I have driven other circuits which the young drivers may not know any more, such as Buenos Aires or Estoril.
"Of course the venue in Abu Dhabi was looking impressive, but it was good to be there as a spectator as well."
And just how long will he stay retired, as speculation linking him with a comeback just refuses to wilt? "Well, let's put it like this, I do not see a reason why I should confirm or rule out anything anyway, just because the people are asking. We have seen what had happened in the summer-suddenly there was a situation which nobody would have anticipated before.
"You never know what happens in life, therefore I do not see a reason to clearly answer those questions," said the motorsport icon.
