Ferrari's Rubens Barrichello believes his team's Formula One rivals will be helped by the use of Michelin tyres next season.
The Brazilian has pointed to the improvements made by Michelin last year and believes the French manufacturer could cause Ferrari, who use Bridgestone tyres, more problems in 2004.
He said: "If I look at the last few seasons, there are reasons to worry, of course, Barrichello. The improvement Michelin made in 2003 was impressive. If they make another one like that next year, we will have to catch up."
Barrichello also believes Ferrari could be pushed by Williams, McLaren and Renault next year after all three teams put the sport's top team under pressure last season.
He added: "I'm under no illusions. It will be a hard battle against McLaren, Williams and Renault, and who knows if some other team will manage to come out with a competitive car that can fight for the top spots. Obviously I hope that the end of the season will be like it was this year, with Ferrari winning."
Filed by Mark O'Neill-Cummins
