Feb.26 (GMM) Luca di Montezemolo has expressed concern about the excessive optimism surrounding Ferrari's forthcoming formula one campaign.

With just over two weeks to go until the 2008 season opener, the widespread paddock perception is that Ferrari's F2008 single seater will be the car to beat -- even if McLaren seems to have closed the gap in recent tests.

"I sense too much optimism about Ferrari, as if we will fight alone for the world title," the Italian said on Monday.

Montezemolo insists, however, that he is pleased that the Maranello based team's preparations for the season are going well.

"I am happy that our drivers feel the new car to be competitive," he said, "but it is important that we have our feet on the ground.

"There will be a very tough championship, we know that," said Montezemolo, who announced that Ferrari had entered an agreement with Italy's Olympic Committee (CONI).

Michael Schumacher, meanwhile, who tested the F2008 for the first time on Monday, said he is not concerned about Ferrari's position as pre-season favourite.

"I do not think expectations are a problem," the German is quoted as saying by La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"We know precisely where we are and we know we can win grands prix. We also know that there is a long road ahead of us.

"In short, we are prepared," the seven time world champion added.