Alonso sees Schumacher as main threat

Schumacher returned to racing last season after an absence of three years, but was overshadowed by Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg as the German car did not prove competitive enough to fight near the top.

Despite that, Alonso reckons Schumacher is still a big threat and believes he will fight for wins if his car is competitive.

"There will be five world champions on the track and the most dangerous champion for me is always Michael," Alonso told reporters during Ferrari's winter retreat at Madonna di Campiglio on Thursday.

"Now in January if I have to choose one name I have to say Michael. He is seven-time champion, he has nothing to prove. He had a difficult season but he is still a champion.

"He is still super class and if the car is right he will be a contender," the Spaniard added.

The Spanish driver, who finished as runner-up to Sebastian Vettel in last year's championship, believes the Red Bull driver will be stronger this season.

But Alonso is hoping his main opponent will be his team-mate Felipe Massa thanks to Ferrari producing a car that is better that its rivals'.

"Hopefully our car is better than the others and my toughest rival next year is Felipe," Alonso added.

"No doubt Sebastian will be a contender. He will have experience and will be calm in certain moments. He will drive better than last year and that makes him dangerous to us. McLaren will also be one of the favourites."