Alesi backs Schuey for championship

Alesi believes that Schumacher's experience at fighting for championships will give him the edge over his two closest rivals Juan Pablo Montoya and Kimi Raikkonen, who in F1 terms, are new to the pressures involved.

"Michael is a great champion and has the experience that his rivals do not have. That can make the difference," Alesi told the Daily Mirror.

"Michael has been here before and he understands what is needed to win the championship. The rest do not have that experience. Of course it will be difficult, but you should never underestimate Michael Schumacher. He can get results when other drivers can't."

Alesi believes that with the introduction of the new points system - designed to make the championship closer - consistency is the key to winning the title: "Montoya takes risks. With the new points system it is important to finish races and not make mistakes."