Melbourne, Feb 24: McLaren prepare for the start of the Formula One season. If testing times are to be believed, the 2004 Formula One season promises to be closer and more competitive than ever. The first chequered flag of the season at the Australian Grand Prix on March 7 will go some way to sorting out substance from smokescreen -- if indeed any of the teams are bluffing. What is certain is that there have been track records set in Spain and Italy and some surprises since the teams launched their new cars in the past month. McLaren, who finished third overall in last year's constructor's championship, start the season with a new car and have only rarely stood out in testing so far.

Bureau Report