Andersson 'Concerned' over Toyota's Prospects

Toyota team chief Ove Andersson has admitted to concern over the new outfit's chances of success on their Formula One debut in this weekend's Australian Grand Prix.

The new heavily-financed team, which spent last year testing with their TF101 car before introducing the new TF102 machine in December, will race for the first time this weekend and many expect them to struggle at the back of the grid.

"It is a feeling of concern," said Andersson today. "It is a bit of stress over the whole operation for the time being. I guess you always feel there is a lot more to do and you find out as you go along, during testing.

"I think now the first few races, for sure, has to be to learn and this year the team has to grow together. We need to learn to walk before we can run."

Andersson and his team set up a mini motorhome last year and toured around the Grand Prix circuit to get the feel of the paddock before their debut season. But although they were allowed into the hallowed area, they were forced to set up home outside it and there were hostilities from other teams.

They caused controversy when they snatched technical director Gustav Brunner from Minardi, and only a late decision to back down on plans to test throughout the testing ban avoided more distress amongst their rivals. However, Andersson says that he has not felt any problems so far during the team's first Grand Prix event.

"I think we feel very welcome," he said. "I cannot say anything else. Everyone we meet says welcome. Now we are a member of the family and it feels just good."