Fernando Alonso has admitted Renault may struggle in the next three races against a resurgent Ferrari.
The Spaniard has seen his championship lead cut to 11 points after three straight wins for Michael Schumacher.
Speaking ahead of Sunday's Hungarian GP, the world champion said: "The next three races will be difficult for us.
"We will be struggling here and also in Turkey because there are no tests. After that, Monza is a good circuit for Ferrari at high speed."
But Alonso, 25, believes the final races three races of the season in China, Japan and Brazil will work in his favour.
"For the last three races I am really confident," he said. "I put the money on me."
Renault are hoping a radical new suspension system, cleared by governing body the FIA, will help to restore their competitive edge at the Hungaroring.
But Alonso added: "If Michael wins the remaining races he will be the champion for sure - this is quite logical.
"If he wins 12 or 13 races in a season he deserves it, but let's wait and see.
"He is coming closer, Ferrari are very strong now. It is true we have to be stronger to beat them.
"The gap is not enough to be champion. We need to beat them on the track and I think we can do it."