Marchionne wants an 'unbeatable' Ferrari!

40

Ferrari boss Sergio Marchionne says the Scuderia must revive its former luster and return to a position of dominance in Formula 1.

The Italian squad has kept a low profile since pre-season testing kicked off last week in Barecelona, its management refraining from bold commentary and predictions.

But Ferrari's current form has prompted optimism in the red camp which has trickled up to President Marchionne.

"The new car is reliable, credible. It is a huge step forward," Marchionne said while attending the Geneva motor show.

"I've been following the results of the Barcelona test and things are going well. The drivers, (Vettel and Raikkonen are happy.

"Objectives? Winning for sure, but when it happens I cannot say.

"But I'm happy with how the car goes -- it's a better car than last year, and not just because they have changed the rules but with how it was designed and put on the track," he insisted.

Bottas growing wary of Ferrari and Red Bull

Marchionne is longing for the world title's return to the House of Maranello, and convinced it will.

"It's nine years that we haven't won (the title) -- this would be the tenth.

"It will end. There is still room to correct the problems. Ferrari has to go back to being unbeatable, as when Schumacher was here," he insisted.

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.