Fisichella Relieved to be in Top Five

The Italian found himself among the first of the leading contenders to be out on the track, following his early exit from the Malaysian Grand Prix, and knew there was little chance of being able to fight for pole position.

But with several of the cars to come out after him and failing to live up to expectations, Fisichella said he had little reason to be unhappy with the position that should give him a chance of fighting for a front grid-row slot on Sunday.

"Considering the track conditions, it was very windy and the wind brings the dust, so it wasn't too bad," said Fisichella, who saw teammate Fernando Alonso grab pole position as the last man out on the track.

"I made a couple of mistakes but apart from that I am quite happy. Obviously at the end of the session the circuit is going to be better, so I am hoping to have another good qualifying session tomorrow.

"It is frustrating but I hope to gain some positions tomorrow and have a good race on Sunday. Then I will be able to start in a better position at the next race."