Rubens looks forward to 2001 tyre war

Tyre wars traditionally result in an increase in lap speeds as the rival manufacturers work frantically to beat each other by designing ultra-soft tyres. The FIA is worried that this could make the sport more dangerous, but Barrichello believes that the competition will be good for F1.

"A tyre war is healthy. It will make Formula One better and will help improve the show," said the Ferrari ace as he prepared for his team's home race at Monza.

"Bridgestone believe they can do a fantastic job and they welcome the other tyre manufacturer.

"If Bridgestone beat Michelin then it is better for them in selling tyres on the road and proving they are better in every respect.

"I really welcome the competition, I think it's good."

When Bridgestone joined the sport in 1997, they were in competition with the then dominant Goodyear company. Barrichello drove a Bridgestone-shod Stewart-Ford that season and often caused upsets thanks to the special qualifying tyres produced by the Japanese newcomers.

Williams, Jaguar and Prost have all committed to a switch from Bridgestone to Michelin next season.