Barrichello Wary of Michelin Threat

Brazilian Rubens Barrichello is worried his Ferrari team's tyre supplier Bridgestone will have to play catch up to rivals Michelin next season.

"If I look at the last few seasons, there are reasons to worry about, of course," Barrichello told Gazzetta dello Sport on Tuesday. "The improvement Michelin made in 2003 was impressive. If they make another one like that next year, we will have to catch up."

The French manufacturer will supply tyres to six of the ten Formula One teams next year, while Bridgestone will supply the other four. Of the top teams, however, the Japanese firm will only be supplying Ferrari.

Barrichello admitted it will be a tough fight next season.

"I'm under no illusions," Barrichello added. "It will be a hard battle against McLaren, Williams and Renault, and who knows if some other team will manage to come out with a competitive car that can fight for the top spots.

"Obviously I hope that the end of the season will be like it was this year, with Ferrari winning."