With memories of a strong one two finish here twelve months ago, the Scuderia Ferrari team head into their home race at the Monza circuit this weekend knowing that they are no longer at the top of the hierarchy and certainly not the favourites to secure victory.

Although they would give nothing more than to repeat their double finish of 2004 in front of their beloved tifosi, boss Jean Todt knows it more than likely won’t happen because despite all their testing they are no closer to solving the problems with the F2005 that would enable them to bounce back for their home fans.

"With the Bridgestone and Ferrari package we have had so much success over the years. We had the best tyres, the best engine, the best chassis and the best drivers. All the combination has to be right to be successful - and this year we did not get the best package,” he said. “It was mainly due to this new tyre rule. We have not done a good enough job and it is not like last year.”

With five races remaining in this years championship, the team sit on the third rung of the constructors championship while Michael’s third in the drivers standings, so although a win may not be forthcoming this weekend, they have managed to soften the blow somewhat.

“Okay we are third in the Constructors' Championship and Michael is third in the Drivers' Championship - which is unbelievable, considering the difficult times we have had. I cannot promise that we are on top of it. We are working on it and I cannot promise that we will win in Monza. We are not the favourites to win in Monza."