Schumacher turned down Ferrari job
Speaking in an interview with German publication Auto Motor Und Sport, Todt claims that his ideal replacement was the team's most successful driver.
"He would have been the best candidate for this job, but he did not want it," said Todt about Schumacher.
"Ross is a very good man. His successes with Ferrari speak for themselves.
"We spoke with each other for a long time – about what was best for Ferrari and what was best for him. But it was better for both parties, on a long-term basis, that he went to Honda and we occupied the team boss position internally.
"Ross is now a competitor, but he will remain a friend of Ferrari and myself."
"In the last 15 years I dreamed of being able to watch a grand prix on television in peace," he explained. "But no matter whether I am at the track or not, for me a grand prix will always be stressful. That will only change if I do not work no more for Ferrari."