First corner problems predicted

Using the 'grasscrete' (green-painted kerbing) at the exit of the turn allows drivers to carry more speed into the corner and Michael Schumacher placed the whole of his Ferrari over the kerbing on most laps during free practice.

Jenson Button, however, said: "It's something that needs to be clarified because putting all four wheels over the white line on a circuit leaves you open to a penalty."

In the drivers' briefing, however, use of the kerb was apparently cleared. But Juan Pablo Montoya pointed out: "Using the kerb gives you more room but it only lasts for 10 metres and that's a big problem because at the start everyone will go there and then when they try to come back onto the circuit it's going to be a huge mess. But you can go a bit quicker using the kerb, there's no doubt about that."