Alonso not worried by Ferrari's resurgence

Although the Spaniard appeared to be cruising to a second world title after the first three flyaway races of the year, a return to form by Ferrari has put Schumacher firmly back in the hunt for the title.

When asked after the European Grand Prix whether he was now worried about his title chances, the Renault driver said: "No, not at all. I think it's not a surprise that Ferrari is fighting. I expect McLaren will arrive also. Honda are really strong in some races so nothing changes from the beginning of the championship.

"There are four teams, sometimes one is quicker, sometimes another one is slower, but all four teams are strong and ready to fight. We also had to be careful about tyres. I think in the next two races Michelin may be stronger than Bridgestone, we will probably see different races so it's difficult to say which one will be quicker."

Alonso believes that next weekend's Spanish Grand Prix should provide more answers as to just how strong Ferrari are - because of how strong Michelin have been there in recent years.

"I think we need to improve a little bit in all areas in the car and I think Barcelona will be a good point, because we have always been quick there in testing," added Alonso.

"Michelin has been in a dominant position in Barcelona over the last two years so I'm really looking forward to winning that one."

And with Schumacher getting a fresh engine for that race, Alonso has played down the fact that he will have to use the same power-unit that he used at this weekend's European GP.

"I think the difference we saw between the first race and the second race of the engine is less than one tenth, probably. We're talking half a tenth. So I hope that if I have the chance to win in Barcelona, this half a tenth won't be necessary."