Wednesday April 10th, 2002

Ferrari are lining up a sensational bid to sign Juan Pablo Montoya as a replacement for Michael Schumacher - because they feel the World Champion is ready to retire, according to a report in the German press.

Four-time World Champion Schumacher is under contract with Ferrari until the end of 2004, but, according to the report, the Italian team fear he will retire if he lands a record-equalling fifth world title this season.

"We believe that Michael Schumacher won't fulfil his contract until 2004 if he wins another world title," a Ferrari official was quoted as saying by the German Press Association (DPA).

"Then we need Montoya. Michael Schumacher and his arch-rival could be both driving for Ferrari in 2003."

Colombian Montoya has clashed with Schumacher on the track this season in a battle for supremacy and Ferrari are keen to prize him away from Williams as a long-term replacement for the German.

Brazilian Rubens Barrichello signed a one-year contract to partner Schumacher while Williams have an option on Montoya next season.

Published at 15:37:19 GMT

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