Coulthard blames lack of grip for struggle

"I love this track it's a great challenge, but unfortunately our car just isn't generating the overall grip that's needed here," said Coulthard, who could only manage the 17th fastest time as he struggled for pace in his Red Bull Racing car.

"The balance isn't too bad, it's as good as it's been during any other lap I've driven here, we just lack efficiency on this type of high-speed circuit.

"We're not really performing as we should be. The year started badly and we've never really recovered from it, it's a big disappointment."

Red Bull's disappointing day was completed by the performance of Robert Doornbos, who also failed to get past the first session and had to be content with 18th position.

"It's difficult to get the maximum out of the car and tyres in these dry conditions and we struggled during qualifying," said Doornbos.

"I didn't think we'd qualify this low, I thought we'd get through to the second session for sure. We've got a long day ahead tomorrow, it's not going to be easy."