“A dream finale to a dream season. We could not ask for more. We have achieved a lot: fifteen wins, nine one-twos, Michael taking his third consecutive world title with Ferrari, after eleven races and Ferrari taking its fourth consecutive constructors’ championship after thirteen races. Rubens took second place in the Drivers’ classification with one race to go and we have scored 221 points, which is the same as all the other teams put together. It’s hard to imagine anything better. These figures are the result of the work done by a fantastic team, which, even in difficult times, has always enjoyed the support of President Montezemolo and the shareholders. This is the best way of thanking them."

Ferrari's domination is in no small part thanks to their excellent technical partners such as Bridgestone and Shell. The Japanese tyres have been remarkable this season as they took the Michelin tyres to the cleaners race after race. And on their 100th race it was fitting that Ferrari used their tyres in the best possible way. Shell oils are key part of the awesome Ferrari bullet proof reliability and off course Marlboro and Vodafone get a mention.

"I also want to thank our partners: Bridgestone who were very keen to win here at Suzuka to celebrate their one hundredth grand prix in the best possible way: Shell, who provided essential technical support, Philip Morris who have always stuck by us and Vodafone, whose first year with us coincides with an historic season. A special word of thanks goes to all our other partners. None of this would be possible without such a unique and professional team."

Things are very different today to that of how things were when Todt joined the team, but it has been the hard times that have made the good times even better and also made the team stronger. Todt heaped praise on each and every individual who is part of this very special team and warns that the motivation to repeat this next year is as high as ever.