Massa says Bahrain tests crucial

All teams except Williams and Spyker kicked off today a three-day test at the Sakhir circuit. That will be followed by another three-day session two days later.

The test will be the first time the teams work in high temperatures with the new Bridgestone tyres, and Massa admits it will be crucial to take full advantage of the running there.

"The tests in Sakhir will be fundamental," Massa told Autosprint magazine. "They are the first ones held with high temperatures. They are important to evaluate tyre degradation and the efficiency of the cooling system under these conditions."

The Ferrari driver also reiterated that the teams the Italian squad will have to fight are McLaren and possibly BMW, with Renault still not up to last year's speed.

"McLaren have already shown to be very competitive, BMW have taken a big leap forwards, and Renault haven't yet shown the same level as previous years but they will certainly be strong," he added.

"We are focused on our job, but sometimes it's good to see what the others do too."

The Brazilian, who will be partnered by Finn Kimi Raikkonen this season, admits it's still too early to know how the exits of Michael Schumacher and technical chief Ross Brawn will affect the team this year.

"On the staff changes - no Ross, no Michael on the track - I can't yet pass judgement: I've mostly worked with the test team. I know we'll have to get used to the new people.

"But I know my engineer, Rob Smedley, is the same as last year, and I wouldn't change him for all the gold in the world."