We've heard the platitudes about it being the start of the new season, the beginning of a new era, so let's just get down to business and look forward to what should be a cracking race.

Pre-season testing had shown that Ferrari and McLaren have the edge, with Renault close behind, followed by BMW. The sessions thus far this weekend have proved this to be the case.

However, Massa's technical problem in qualifying, and Renault's double misery on Friday demonstrates that there are reliability issues, and that is before we get to the ultimate test, the race.

Today look forward to a great race as various drivers and teams seek to establish some early superiority, with Massa's hopes of asserting himself over teammate Kimi Raikkonen taking a severe knock yesterday afternoon. However, with the Brazilian now starting from the back of the grid - his team having opted to change his engine - we hope to see the youngster stage a fight back worthy of his former team leader.

It goes without saying that Kimi will want to make the most of the situation regarding the in-team fight, however, there is the bigger picture, the desire to open the season with a win and at the same time get one over on his former team and the double World Champion.

Alonso has his own problems, faced with the outrageous talent of a rookie teammate who has clearly taken to F1 like a fish to water. Ron Dennis has every right to be smiling - for a change - he has a tremendous pair of drivers on his hands.

While Giancarlo Fisichella has stepped up to the plate this weekend, it mustn't be forgotten that the Italian is a 'hit and miss' driver, being inspiring and frustrating in equal measures. He has won here before, so there is no reason that he shouldn't be challenging today. Teammate Heikki Kovalainen had admitted to his poor form in qualifying, but let's not forget that this is his first race weekend. We have no doubt that like Hamilton he possesses tremendous talent.

Another team with a strong line-up - even if the statistics don't bear this out - is BMW, and both Heidfeld and Kubica are capable of doing very well here.

We have to be honest and admit that we were surprised by Toyota's pace yesterday, but it remains to be seen whether this was another tactical - make that strategic - ploy by the Japanese team.

As for Honda and Williams, both of whom were disappointing yesterday - the Brackley outfit particularly so - it is to be hoped that they'll raise their game today, even though the Japanese team doesn't expect to resolve its problems in the near future.

Putting aside the legal issues, it was a tremendous performance from Super Aguri yesterday, and surely nobody resents either Takuma Sato or Anthony Davidson enjoying their moment. Ignoring the legal aspect, the fact is that this little team outpaced Honda, a situation that will not have gone down well in certain quarters. Should Super Aguri continue to embarrass the Brackley team today, it could well prove to be the proverbial straw - in terms of camels and backs - as for as Honda's management is concerned.

Finally, an absolutely tremendous performance from Mark Webber yesterday, a stunning performance that flatters the Red Bull.