More problems for the Scuderia

(GMMf1NET -- Apr.7) Ferrari and Michael Schumacher's 2006 troubles persisted whilst testing at Vallelunga on Thursday, the German suffering a V8 engine failure on track.

But the 37-year-old downplayed the dramatic Italian press' crisis-like headlines, insisting that the current red car is 'strong'.

A spokesman also downplayed the V8 blow-up. ''It was an old motor,'' the press office told Gazzetta dello Sport.

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo, like Schumacher, is hoping for a impressive return to form next time out, following a lack of pace in Malaysia and Melbourne.

''We must win in Imola,'' said the Italian, referring to Ferrari's first home race of the 2006 season.

Schumacher commented at Vallelunga: ''The car is good, but we have to demonstrate this full power.

''Imola? I don't like to make promises, but I am sure that we will deliver an improved performance.

''I repeat -- the car is strong.''