Brawn: First laps are critical

"I think we can expect a very exciting race with Montoya alongside Michael on the front row, especially in the early laps," said Brawn. "I think it will add something to the expectations of this Grand Prix."

Schumacher lines up alongside Juan Pablo Montoya, with whom he's had a few brushes in the past, including at the recent San Marino Grand Prix. Behind them is Takuma Sato, who has never started so high and has had many a trip to the gravel in his short Formula 1 career. There's also Jarno Trulli's Renault to consider. The Italian starts fourth, but with the French car's reputation for quick starts he could well be in the mix by the end of the long run to the first turn.

"For Michael, I think it will be important not to lose ground in the opening part of the race," added Brawn. "If he manages it, he can control the pace, otherwise it will be a very hard fight. From what we have seen, our rivals' [Michelin] tyres are very quick over one lap, and then degrade somewhat, while ours [Bridgestone] are very consistent."

Barcelona is renowned for working tyres hard, and tomorrow expected to be a three-stop race for all runners. Schumacher will be starting on the softer of the Bridgestone compounds. Ferrari boss Jean Todt added his confidence in the tyre situation.

"We know we can count on good consistency from the Bridgestones," said Todt. "Tomorrow, as usual, realiability, strategy and the rate of tyre degradation will be key factors."