Optimistic Trulli Begins Season in New Team

Jarno Trulli is still looking for that elusive first win, but the Italian driver - starting his first season with Renault - says he is now more optimistic than ever.

"There are many people in Renault - and all of them are motivated and determined," Trulli told Italy's La Gazzetta dello Sport. "Resources are infinite here, and you can feel the sense of responsibility. But I'm not afraid of it, this is what I wanted, I will give my best to be up to it.

"We are aware of the gap between the best and us, but we are looking at a season on the rise; our team is essentially new, but it would be nice if we could start from a good reliability base, and then rise to be close to the best."

Asked where he would like to grab his first win, Trulli replied: "It doesn't matter where, as long as it happens..."

Trulli also commented on the difference between the Bridgestone tyres he used at Jordan, and the Michelin he is now using at Renault. "The Michelins are very different," the Italian said. "They even forced me to change my set up technique a bit, my driving style, and generally my working methods. On a performance level, however, you can understand that these tyres can give you victories."

As for the outcome of the 2002 World Championship, Trulli places his bets on reigning World Champions Michael Schumacher and Ferrari. "I think the title will be won again by Michael Schumacher," he explained, "mainly because Ferrari still have the greatest technical advantage."