Button predicts good racing

The Englishman thinks the layout of the A1-Ring will mean there is plenty of overtaking in the race on Sunday, and after missing out on points following his retirement in Spain he's determined to be right in the thick of the battle for the top six.

"Austria is a track where we can really race, and it's likely that we'll see some overtaking," he said. "I think we've got the car to make progress through the field if necessary. I think we can expect to see the same level of competitiveness. The McLarens and Saubers will be our main competition."

Button finished fifth on his first visit to the A1-Ring in 2000, but struggled last year with the difficult Benetton B201. Team-mate Jarno Trulli had arguably his best F1 race in Austria. As a rookie back in 1997, the Italian led 37 laps for Prost but was denied a fairy tale result when his engine expired. This season he's been generally out-shone by Button, but was more competitive in Spain until his car hit trouble late in the race.

"It was important for me to prove a good race pace in Barcelona," Trulli admitted. "Obviously, it's disappointing to still not have scored any points, but the last race showed how well we are working as a team. Whatever I've done before is in the past - I'm looking to do my best this season, for myself and the team. I know the circuit well, and have proved I can be quick here. I'm sure we can be competitive."

As Benetton the team had a poor record in Austria, making the top six just once in five years. Alex Wurz scored the team's sole points at the race, finishing fifth in 1999.