MADONNA DI CAMPIGLIO, Italy — A new ban on in-season testing and changes to the cars have Formula One stalwart Ferrari wary about the team's prospects this season.

Ferrari director Stefano Domenicali believes the rule changes and cost-cutting measures, which mean that teams can only try out technical improvements during practice sessions on race weekends, will make the start of the season critical.

"This year I'm very cautious because we're starting with a project that isn't an evolution from the previous years," Domenicali said Wednesday, at Ferrari's annual winter retreat in the Italian Dolomites. "I think the crucial factor will be being competitive right from the start since we can't evolve during the season."

Ferrari unveiled its 2009 car — the F60 — on Monday. In line with new rules to enable more passing, the car features big modifications in aerodynamics with wider front wings and a rear wing that is higher and narrower.

Felipe Massa, who lost last year's driver's title to McLaren's Lewis Hamilton by one point in the final race of the season, likened the car to a smaller Formula 3 version.

The first official tests of the F60 are scheduled for next week in Portimao, Portugal, along with the cars of other teams. The season begins with the Australian Grand Prix on March 29.

Domenicali also dismissed speculation that Fernando Alonso could leave Renault for Ferrari, whose drivers are under contract until the end of 2010.

"It's tough to say more than what has already been said on this issue," Domenicali said. "Fernando is a great driver but we are more than happy with ours."