Having scored only seven points in the first three races, Ralf Schumacher is anything but satisfied. However, the German believes the team’s fortunes will improve.  Ralf Schumacher’s fourth place in the season opener in Australia is the best result the German BMW WilliamsF1 Team driver has scored in the 2004 season so far. In Malaysia, he was forced out of the race by a technical failure and in the inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix the 28-year-old had to make do with seventh place. However, for the European season opener at Imola on 25th April, Ralf is determined to turn things round.

“The situation is different to what it was last year when we were able to make it from zero to hero in a very short period of time. This year we will have to work hard to close the gap step by step, but I’m sure that at the end of the day we will make it,” said Ralf, proving his confidence in the BMW WilliamsF1 Team’s ability to develop the car.

At the same time, he insists that it will be a long way back to the top of the podium. “Those who believe that we simply have to click our fingers to close the gap to Ferrari are in for a disappointment,” added Ralf, “On the one hand, Michael will not rest on his laurels, and on the other hand there is a lot of refinement work waiting for us.” Work which will be continued this week during the team’s test at Le Castellet.

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team hopes to have achieved a significant improvement in performance in time for the San Marino Grand Prix, but Ralf warns that quite a healthy dose of patience may be necessary, “This will take some time. On the other hand I have to say that - to be honest - we haven’t got too much time. That said I am convinced that we are moving in the right direction.”

The ‘Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari’ near Imola is one of Ralf’s favourite circuits. In the past three years, he has always secured a top-four result, and indeed won the 2001 San Marino Grand Prix, his first ever Formula One victory.