Juan Pablo Montoya has written off Michael Schumacher's chances of bringing an end to his worst-ever start to a Formula One campaign in Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix.
The Colombian admits he would be surprised if his Ferrari rival triumphed in Sao Paulo this weekend even though the German has an incredible record on the Interlagos track.
Montoya reckons Schumacher's hopes are slim because of his tyres.
"I think Michael is going to have a hard time in Brazil," said Montoya, confident his Michelin rubber will prove superior to Ferrari's Bridgestone tyres. "I do not think he is going to win this weekend".
But Schumacher has won the race four times and had never finished out of the points in 11 visits to Brazil - the only time he failed to finish on the podium he came home fifth.
The five-time champion is still searching for his first victory of the season having finished fourth and sixth in the opening two races to register his worst start to a campaign since he broke into the sport in 1991.
Schumacher has not gone three races without claiming a podium place for almost three years but he is still joint third in the standings with eight points.
Montoya admits the reigning champion will be a different proposition once he gets his new car.
Ferrari introduced their 2002 model in Brazil last year but this year's car will not be unveiled until the next race, the San Marino Grand prix in Imola in Italy, later this month.
PA