First Toyota win not far, says Trulli

"It's so hard to make predictions: who would have thought Ferrari would be so weak this year? We are confident, both from the 2005 results and for the situation inside the team," Trulli told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"Toyota are the only F1 entity that can afford to heavily invest in research and development. Obviously it's still a young team and it can make mistakes, but I hope the progression continues, and the first victory and the first championship will come soon."

Toyota enjoyed their strongest season to date in 2005, with Trulli giving them their first podium finishes as they fought Ferrari for third place in the standings.

"2005 has been a fine year for everyone, including me," Trulli said. "Besides the three podiums gained and the ones missed, we were always protagonists, regularly in the top five. We have all the elements to face the 2006 World Championship positively."

Toyota will switch to Bridgestone rubber in 2006, after having used Michelin tyres since they made their Formula One debut in 2002.

And although the Japanese tyre supplier struggled to be competitive in 2005, Trulli is confident they will raise their game next season.

"It hasn't been a happy year for Bridgestone, but with the new regs and tyre changes which in 2004 saw Ferrari dominate, Toyota too could find themselves with competitive compounds," the Italian added.