Kristensen backs Michelin and Williams to challenge top two in 2001

FORMER Michelin test driver Tom Kristensen has backed BMW-Williams to challenge the dominance of Ferrari and McLaren in the 2001 world championship.

BMW-Williams will switch from Bridgestone tires to Michelin next year and the Dane, who worked on the French manufacturer's compounds this year, said that the move will reap rewards.

"Testing has been incredibly exciting for me," said Kristensen, who won the Le Mans 24-hour race this year with Audi. "I've got over 10,000 kilometers behind me and I'm the one who knows most about the upcoming Michelin challenge.

"I wouldn't be surprised to see Williams matching the performance of the Ferraris and McLarens in a race or two next season."

Kristensen ended his testing duties with Michelin at Valencia last week.