Alonso was hoping for better result

The Renault driver, who yesterday was hindered by an ear infection, was over two seconds off the quickest driver at the end of Q3.

Alonso completed one run less than most of his rivals in the final session, as he was already out of soft tyres.

"I had no temperature this morning so I was in better condition to drive the car," Alonso said. "Our result today is a bit disappointing because I expected to be fifth or sixth in qualifying, but overall the car is better than in Australia, although we're not fast enough and need to improve.

"We will also have to see what role KERS will play in the race tomorrow."

Renault team-mate Nelson Piquet had another disappointing day after failing to make it to Q2 for the second race in a row.

"This morning we knew that it might be a difficult qualifying session," the Brazilian said. "However it could have worked out better for me this afternoon, but on my final lap I pushed a bit too hard at the end of the lap and lost three or four tenths, which proved costly.

"I'm obviously disappointed that I couldn't get the most from qualifying, but I have to put this behind me and think about the race tomorrow."