Mark Blundell has tipped Ferrari ace Michael Schumacher to win a seventh world championship in 2004.

Appearing on the central stage at Autosport International, the ITV pundit and former grand prix racer predicted that both McLaren and Williams would provide strong title challenges, but that the Scuderia would again emerge triumphant.

"This year's going to be good," said Blundell. "I think McLaren are going to be strong, and Williams look like they're be right in the thick of things as well. But I'm afraid to say it, but I think that Michael Schumacher and Ferrari will be knocking on the door of another world championship."

Blundell believes that the first opening races of 2004 could be crucial. "The first few races will be important. If you've got reliability and consistency out of the box and you're strong, it's going to stand you in good stead at the end of the year. Teams that are out testing now can get them sorted and start scoring points early on will find that invaluable at the end of the season."

Source: Autosport