Alonso optimistic Michelin still ahead

That is the view of World Champion Fernando Alonso, who believes that the change in tyre regulations this year has not automatically handed the initiative to Bridgestone - even though the Japanese tyre supplier dominated the sport the last time pitstops were allowed.

"Michelin has done a very good job developing the tyres for the new rules," said Alonso. "I think they were under pressure when the rules changed, because people thought that they were not so competitive in 2004. But we are there.

"We have a super tyre now, it doesn't matter whether the temperatures are high or low. I think we have good performance, and good consistency. I am confident that the Michelin will still be the best tyre in Formula One this year."

Although Renault chose not to attend a recent pre-season test at Bahrain, technical director Bob Bell is confident that his team and Michelin will not be at a disadvantage compared to front-runners Honda Racing and Ferrari who did.

"The testing Honda were able to do has provided Michelin with good direction on the tyres, and that will benefit all the Michelin teams," explained Bell. "Furthermore, last year we were able to set the car up very quickly and we didn't lose running time optimising set-up.

"I think the R26 is even better in that area, so while the other teams have had the advantage of extra track time, I don't think it will be a critical factor."