Rain likely for Oz GP weekend

Australian forecasters have suggested that the weekend will be cool, with showers likely on Saturday and Sunday. This could place a lot of emphasis on the new rule dictating that Bridgestone and Michelin are each only allowed to bring one type of wet tyre to each race.

Last year, Bridgestone tyres had a clear edge in the wet, and recent wet weather testing has suggested that this is still the case. Williams test driver Marc Gene has acknowledged that Michelin's wet tyres still need further development.

He said: "Our tyre works well in damp conditions and drying conditions, so these areas are covered. The question mark is in full wet conditions. At the moment if you increase the groove for the full wets and when it dries they overheat. That is the problem everyone has."

But Gene added that the new regulations should benefit the French company. "I think the one wet tyre rule favours Michelin because we know Bridgestone has a good intermediate," he said.

After a long drought that has affected the water level in Albert Park Lake, the weather in Melbourne has cooled considerably over recent weeks, with occasional heavy rain.

One driver who should be used to the city's notoriously fickle weather is local hero Mark Webber. He said: "The weather in Melbourne hasn't been anywhere near as hot as in previous years and changes in the climate will make a significant impact on everyone's performance."