Domenicali: Todt's leadership style was key to Ferrari success

Called upon to speak about the man that led Ferrari during the golden years of Michael Schumacher - a time when the team was almost invincible as they gobbled up 11 Formula 1 world titles from 1999 until the end of 2004 - this is Domenicali's tribute to Todt:

"It is an honour for me to commend Jean Todt, not only what he represented to Ferrari but what he meant to me personally.

"I joined Ferrari in 1991 and Jean Todt arrived two years later and he was my direct boss. At this time, I spent more time with him than with my family.

When you spend hours and hours together in an office, then you get very close. That's why I know: all his success, titles or awards did not just fall from the sky or came about pure luck! "No, they are the result of his full commitment.

"He always spoke to us with great passion and enthusiasm, teaching us that we must never give up, always work hard, at all times ensure that everyone is in the right place and knows what he has to do.

"In short, Jean Todt's approach and leadership style were key to Ferrari's success.

"This man completely dedicated himself to his task and always gave full throttle - from the early morning hours until late into the night. He made sure everyone in the team was motivated and working in one direction.

"There was never time to relax, whether we won or lost. thus we attained a very high standard and the results speak for themselves.

"Jean Todt also had the ability to bring the right people into the team and make them work together in the best possible way. His credo was: You can only win as a team, never alone.

"When he arrived at Ferrari, we were in a difficult period. There was scepticism, restlessness and much switching back and forth. Jean brought calm to the team and focused on the things that needed to improve.

"He had a clear view of the situation and the ability to directly attack problems. His knowledge of human nature is unique, when he sees you for the first time, he immediately sees through you and knows who you are and how you tick.

"He is suspicious at the beginning, with a thick wall around him but if you overcome that and win him over you will see the difference.

"Another point I want to mention is how important it was for him, to listen and to comprehend his drivers. He had an incredible understanding of what they really needed to reach the maximum level.

"That was also the special relationship that existed between him and Michael, he made Michael a world record champion. I am very happy that I was able to learn everything from him," concluded Domenicali.

Cleary moved by the citation of his former teammate, he said, "I’m very touched, barely holding back the tears. When succeed, it is always nice if you are able to give to people."