How ironic that here in America, home of the conspiracy theory, the World Championship appears to be on the point of receiving a much needed shot in the arm.

Ferrari's astonishing pace in qualifying has stunned everyone. At a time when we were all bemoaning the 25-point advantage that Fernando Alonso enjoy, the Italian team appears to be on the verge of pulling off a remarkable victory.

Alonso is concerned, Briatore is concerned, Symonds is concerned… however, Bernie is rubbing his hands, and possibly various other body parts, in glee, at the prospect of Schumacher of taking a bite out of the Spaniard's lead, and the possibility of the World Championship going down to the wire.

Although they would be quick to deny it, and who would blame them, Michelin does appear to have gone for a conservative tyre choice here, and despite some brave performances in qualifying we don't expect Michelin to celebrate its 101st win today, but rather Bridgestone to celebrate its 98th.

Right now, Ferrari and Bridgestone look unbeatable here, and the glorious sunshine, as opposed to the predicted rain, doesn't help.

Behind the two red cars however, providing Michelin hasn't been too cautious, it should be good to see the scrap between the Renaults, Hondas, McLarens, BMWs, Webber and Ralf Schumacher.

In case you are not aware, Nico Rosberg has been penalised for not visiting the weigh-bridge when instructed during qualifying, and subsequently loses all his times and starts from 22nd on the grid. Please note, that's weigh-bridge, not Weybridge the town in Surrey. Toro Rosso opted to change the engine on Tonio Liuzzi's car, which means the Italian starts from 21st, exactly where he was meant to start from. While Jarno Trulli has opted to start from the pitlane in order that the team could work on his car overnight following a problem during qualifying.

What is good to see is that despite the shameful way they were treated last year, the race fans are back in their thousands… which is great news for everyone. Let's hope F1 gives them a great race, even if its only the battle for third - assuming Felipe won't dare to challenge Michael.

As the field prepares to head off on the warm up lap, the air temperature is 36 degrees C, while the track temperature is 42 degrees. It is hot, hot, hot and sunny.

The tyre warmers come off, crew members moves to the side of the track, the field heads off behind Michael.

The flags are waved, banners raised, air horns scream, as Michael leads the field back to the grid - so different from twelve months ago.

Michael makes a great start but Massa's is better, into the first corner Alonso and Michael are side by side, however there's carnage behind them.

A number of cars are off in the gravel, including a Toro Rosso (Speed) both McLarens, Webber, Heidfeld, Klien and Montagny. Christijan Albers heads back to the pits.