Australian driver Mark Webber on Thursday named Renault and Mercedes as the title favorites for the Formula One Grand Prix this year.

While Red Bull and Ferrari are acknowledged by most observers as the main contenders for the championship, Webber believes Mercedes and Renault are also set to be challenging for Grand Prix wins.

"I think the Renault and Mercedes are fast, they are not hanging around. They've done a good job in the winter," Webber told Australia Associated Press on Thursday.

"Renault have always been there or thereabouts ... they'll be quick this year, they've got a very experienced team.

"Whether they can put a championship together remains to be seen.

"Also for Mercedes, they've had a good finish to the winter testing and they are going to be winning some races, for sure, this year.

"They have showed good reliability so there's no reason why that would change for the title - along with McLaren and Ferrari."

Meanwhile, Ferrari's Fernando Alonso said the true pacesetters will not be known for at least three races into the season.

Melbourne Grand Prix will begin on Sunday at Melbourne, Australia.