Alonso: 2011 rule changes will succeed

The wing device will allow drivers to activate an F-duct-style drag-reduction system when within a prescribed distance behind a car ahead, giving the chasing driver a straightline speed advantage over their opponent - who will not be able to trigger their own wing device in defence. In parallel with this new initiative, the power-boosting KERS will be reintroduced after a one-year absence.

Previous attempts to improve the racing in F1, such as 2009's aerodynamic changes, have not proved particularly successful, but double world champion Alonso thinks the new rules package will succeed.

"Obviously every year normally Formula 1 changes rules to make it more spectacular, to have more overtaking manoeuvres and to have a better show," said Alonso in an interview provided by the Ferrari press office.

"It's true that in 2011 there are two big changes to the regulations, which is the KERS and the rear wing that we can move when we have an overtaking possibility. I think these two combined give us a speed advantage that is quite big compared to the car in front.

"So I'm confident that next year, finally, the rules will help overtaking and we will have a better show for everybody."

He added that the combination of KERS, the wing system and the change to Pirelli tyres would pose a major challenge for teams' designers as they tried to ensure their 2011 cars got the maximum out of all three.

"One of the most important is the tyres, which normally change the behaviour of the car, so we have to make sure that Pirelli is well coordinated with our car," said Alonso.

"Then we have the KERS, which comes back from 2009, and in 2011 will be a very important tool for overtaking and also for performance. We need to find a way of preparing the car to use the KERS in the best way possible.

"Then there is the moveable rear wing, that will try to make a better show, but also is a new area to experiment and exploit for performance."