Webber expects fireworks up front

The Red Bull driver thinks that, in the fight around Kimi Raikkonen, Alonso and Hamilton are more likely to clash now that they're no longer team-mates.

"There was plenty of spice last year but I think it could be more fiery this season," he said in his BBC Sport column.

"It could actually get nastier because the gloves are off as the players are in different teams. Fernando can take the fight to Lewis, and there's a bit of friction there, while Kimi is the sort of guy who just gets on with it. It could be fascinating."

While Renault haven't consistently shown the speed to challenge Ferrari and McLaren in testing, Webber believes Alonso will still be able to mix it with Raikkonen and Hamilton.

"Renault aren't at the same pace as Ferrari and McLaren but I think Alonso will put the cat among the pigeons every now and then. He won't win the war, but some of the battles could get juicy."

But the Australian expects Ferrari to get off to the best start at Albert Park this weekend.

"McLaren look pretty quick in qualifying trim but Ferrari are definitely favourites for this weekend. They always seem to have an advantage in Melbourne so I think they'll start the season pretty strongly."