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Di Montezemolo: Tyres to Blame for Form

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has pinpointed the blame for his team's current struggles in Formula One on tyre supplier Bridgestone - because he claims the performance of rubber is now the most decisive factor in a car's speed

Although Michael Schumacher retired from the Spanish Grand Prix with a double puncture, di Montezemolo is more concerned about Bridgestone's lack of overall speed.

Speaking to La Repubblica, di Montezemolo said: "With these new regulations it's more of a World Championship for tyres than for cars.

"I'm worried because I see, after five races, that we have a very competitive car, but we have a big problem with the tyres. Bridgestone have worked very well in previous years, but with these new regulations, tyres have an excessive and certainly decisive role.

"[I hope] the situation improves because we have trouble in being fast both over a hot lap and over the race distance."

He added: "I know Bridgestone have always worked well, and I know they are working hard. This is certainly the number one problem today and it's the one that worries me the most.

"Having said that, we have a great strength. I knew that sooner or later the time would come when we couldn't win anymore: what happens in sport happens in life too. But we'll get even more satisfaction when we'll soon go back to winning because we have the will to do it and we'll demonstrate it."

Di Montezemolo has also suggested that changes in the regulations this year have also played a part in Ferrari's slip down the order.

Although he does not specifically state what they are, he is most likely referring to the fact drivers can no longer change tyres.

"Some regulations that have been made I don't consider to be suitable for F1, but are fundamental in limiting Ferrari's dominance," he added.

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