Ferrari to reserve third car for Schu in 2010

(GMM) Ferrari has vowed to "fight" for the right to field a third car in formula one races — and the Italian team's extra cockpit would be reserved for Michael Schumacher.

Schumacher, 40, on Tuesday called off his comeback to replace the injured Felipe Massa due to a neck complaint, but Luca di Montezemolo has not given up hope that the German will be seen again at the wheel of a Maranello built single seater.

"We're continuing to fight until every team has the right to start with three cars in the next season, and one I'd have handed over to Michael with pleasure," the Ferrari president said in an interview with Italy's La Stampa newspaper.

Also in the interview, published in full on Wednesday, Montezemolo hinted that he will check on Schumacher's availability to drive a third Ferrari ahead of the 2010 season.

The 61-year-old Italian also used the opportunity to have another dig at F1's new wave of teams, including US F1, Campos and Manor — and possibly another in the place of the withdrawing BMW-Sauber.

"I prefer three McLarens and three Renaults to three 'whatevers'," Montezemolo jibed. "With BMW gone, there's not much to say but lots to do."