Ferrari remain cautious for 2008

The Italian squad took both titles last year after a season-long battle with McLaren, disqualified from the constructors' championship due to the spying row.

Domenicali, whose team were the first to unveil their new car for the 2008 season last Sunday, believes the competition will be even stronger this year.

He also expects Renault, who struggled in 2007 after winning the title two years in a row, to bounce back in the upcoming season.

"We have to be very cautious because we had some major changes to the rules," Domenicali told reporters during Ferrari's ski press meeting in Italy.

"We must think that all of our opponents have taken a step forward. McLaren remains one of the strongest opponents.

"We have to respect everyone. We have to respect Renault, because last year I think they focused more than anyone on the development of the car for this year and obviously they now have (Fernando) Alonso in the team so I expect a significant step forward from Renault.

"We respect everyone, so there's major caution from our part because all teams are going to grow.

"It will be a difficult season. But we can aim for the same result as last year. We are working with humility and we also respect our opponents. Our car is competitive however, just like our drivers."

Domenicali also echoed Jean Todt's remarks that rivals McLaren will have an early advantage when the season begins thanks to having built the new electronics system which all teams must use.

"Jean Todt has already cleared this position from our point of view," he added. "This should not become an excuse for us, it will mean we have to work more intensely, more precisely because this is a fact. Full stop.

"It is there, it is in the car so this new parameter must be used as best as possible. If they eventually should have an advantage, because they know the basic structure, this should not become an excuse. We must work, work and work. Full stop."