Barcelona preview: Webber the man to beat

The Formula 1 feeder series heads to Spain this weekend for round three of the Championship and Webber, who won last time out at Imola, sees no reason why he can't produce a repeat performance in Saturday's race.

"After the test at Monza last week, I'm quite confident," Webber said. "We were always in the top three throughout both days, so there is no reason why I can't stay there for this weekend."

The Australian Super Nova driver cannot, however, expect to have things all his own way. Championship leader and Interlagos winner Justin Wilson, who is just one point ahead of Webber, will be keen to step back onto the top step of the podium.

Wilson finished down the order during testing after rain prevented the Brit from going out new rubber towards the end of the second day.

"I am not too worried about the Monza times," Wilson said, "as I had a clear agenda for the two-days. My job was to gain as much information as possible for the team in order for us to have a good set-up for the race in September."

Arden International's Darren Manning will also likely be a force this weekend. After running Webber close at Imola and a consistent performance during testing.

Antonio Pizzonia will be looking to build on the three points he scored in San Marino. The Brazilian battled magnificently from seventh on the grid to finish in fourth place and will likely maintain his momentum on the Circuit de Catalunya.

Missing for the Barcelona paddock is the struggling KJR Monaco Motorsport team due to management wrangles between the two parties which merged just before the start of the season. This reduces the grid down to 24 runners and leaves Briton Justin Keen out of a drive.

The cars take to the track for the first of two qualifying sessions on Friday at 1515 BST.