Chinese GP inside line

If Ferrari can win from where it found itself on lap one in Monza, what chance for the rest in Shanghai? Factor in that nobody has seen the place before, traditionally a factor that further bolsters Michael Schumacher's advantage, and that the German is always keen to make his mark on any new venue, and Schumacher must start an overwhelming favourite. Given the circumstances, 8-15 is not all that bad

Sep 24, 2004, 3:43 AM

Rubens Barrichello, who can secure second place in the championship here, is 5-1 for a win, with Kimi Raikkonen slightly longer odds, at 6-1.

The key battle as the season enters its closing stages, is that between BAR and Renault for second place in the constructors championship. One line of thought is that the layout of the fabulous new Shanghai circuit should suit the scrappers, which should suit Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard is quoted at 14-1 to win the race, the same as BAR rival Jenson Button, with the pair at 9-4 for a podium.

For those of you who have faith in Jacques Villeneuve, it would surely be asking way too much for JV to win on his F1 return (33-1) but some of you might fancy the French Canadian for a podium at 6-1. But I wouldn't be among them...

With the highly effective Hungary-spec Bridgestone tyre back at Shanghai it is hard to see fast Ferrari even for the pole but if Michael doesn't appeal at 6-5, you might have a flutter on Rubens at 5-1.