Zonta: Renault can stay on top - EXCLUSIVE.

by Russell Atkins

Ricardo Zonta believes Renault is in good shape heading into the opening round of the new Formula 1 campaign in Melbourne in just over a week's time, though he admits on current form Ferrari will be tough to beat.

The Brazilian joined the French outfit as test-driver towards the end of last year, and is already settling in well. He said the success the squad had achieved with its double world championships over the past two seasons spoke for itself, and he is confident that impressive run will not be broken in 2007.

"I'm very happy to be part of the team, especially as it's a winning team," he told Crash.net. "I've visited the factory a few times already and there are very good people working there. Everybody is very motivated."

Crucially for the R?gie, the former BAR-Honda ace and Toyota test-driver has prior experience of running on Bridgestone tyres, a benefit that cannot be underestimated considering the Enstone-based concern is having to make the move across from Michelin, while arch-rival Ferrari has been on the Japanese rubber all along.

"It's very difficult to switch from Michelins to Bridgestones," he stressed. "You have to re-balance the car completely, and I think this is one of the key reasons Renault invited me to join the team."

Although Zonta admitted existing Bridgestone users such as Ferrari may have a small initial advantage when the season gets underway in Australia, he is adamant Renault will not go down without a fight.

"I think the drivers we have are good enough," he asserted. "We are going to work very hard to keep on top."