Ferrari expects 'great things' from Irvine

(14-Oct-98) - Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo is confident that
should Michael Schumacher win the Japanese Grand Prix, Eddie Irvine can
stop Mika Hakkinen from securing the second place he needs to clinch the
World Championship,

"I am expecting great things from our drivers," said di
Montezemolo. "Especially from Eddie Irvine, who drove an exceptional
race on that track a year ago, putting us back in contention for the
title."

Di Montezemolo's comments came as rumours surfaced that Ferrari might drop
Irvine in favour of Jean Alesi.

Eddie Irvine appeared confident of success at his favourite track and
unconcerned about the pressure undoubtedly mounting on him.

"Suzuka is the ideal circuit for us, the best one at which to try to
get a one-two." Said the Irishman. "Everyone's telling me I'll
have to help Michael a lot. I know that very well. We were formidable at
Suzuka in '97 and we've got every possibility of repeating that."

The 32-year-old tested last week for the first time since the Luxembourg
GP. He was trying out a new seat aimed at helping alleviate the back
problems he has suffered from all year.

Ferrari continued to pound out the testing miles last week, but a source
said there is 'no truth' in rumours that the Maranello team will try
radical new parts on its car. It would seem most of Ferrari's effort is
being directed at developing tyres with Goodyear.

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