That did not come to pass, but many would be surprised if Williams were not in the running for the championship in 2002.

The combination of Williams with engine supplier BMW was always expected to be strong, and this year proved why.

Williams produced a solid, competitive car that seemed to perform well at most tracks, but the real find this year has been the BMW engine.

The German car company was impressive enough in 2000, its first year in F1 since 1987. But for their second year they produced a jewel of a motor.

Reputed to have more than 840bhp, it was at least 25bhp more powerful even than its closest rival, and more than one driver remarked open-mouthed on its awesome grunt.

The final ingredient was Michelin tyres. The French company made a strong impression in its return to F1, having been absent since 1984.

In truth, it is difficult to know how much of a help Michelin were, for while their tyres were undoubtedly durable, they seemed to work at their best only in certain conditions. And their biggest weakness was the length of time they take to work at their optimum.

In 2002, though, Michelin, Williams and BMW can surely only get stronger.