Trulli: Toyota were over-optimistic

The Japanese squad have endured another disappointing year, having scored just 12 points and a couple of sixth places as their best results so far.

The Cologne-based outfit have targetted their first Formula One victory when they launched their car for this year.

"Toyota suffer from over-optimism," Trulli was quoted as saying by Gazzetta dello Sport. "When I tested the new car at the beginning of the season, I immediately realized it wasn't up to scratch. Instead Ralf (Schumacher) said it had great potential."

He added: "When I came here, in 2005, I got on the podium three times in the first five races. I was fooled, because then came the downfall in 2006, and 2007."

Trulli says, however, that the team have promised him better things for next season.

"The Japanese bosses maintain we'll have a car two seconds faster. It only that was true, I would even give up half of my retainer."