Tire war to color ’06 hierarchy

(GMMf1NET) A Michelin-tired car might be quick in the Malaysian heat, but Imola is heading for a Ferrari white-wash, according to Pat Symonds.

Renault's engineering director reckons Bridgestone, rival tire supplier for Ferrari and Williams, will have the upper hand at the first European round of 2006.

''I think in Imola Ferrari will win by a very, very large margin,'' he told Reuters.

With Renault, McLaren, Ferrari, Honda and perhaps even Williams in the running for grand prix victory this year, the season looks set to turn into a race of car development and the swinging fortunes of F1's departing tire war.

Honda's Jenson Button, for example, is particularly looking forward to Malaysia, where hot weather is likely to suit Michelin more than Bridgestone rubber.

''We believe that our car and tires are suited to the conditions,'' sporting director Gil de Ferran agreed.