Barrichello says Q3 is realistic

Barrichello, whose team is introducing several updates in the hope of turning around its season following a slow start, finished the day as 16th quickest, but was forced to stop early due to a problem with KERS.

Despite that, Barrichello reckons it is realistic for Williams to aim to reach Q3 tomorrow.

"The new package is promising but we had a KERS water problem which meant our day had to be cut short," said the Brazilian.

"It was a pity but we are optimistic as the new front wing, rear wing and other parts were all working well and we were running competitively.

"Our main objective is to start in the top ten this weekend and that's definitely realistic."

Team-mate Pastor Maldonado endured a difficult day after crashing both during the morning and the afternoon sessions.

"It was an unlucky day," he said. "It was wet this morning so we decided not to do too many runs. This afternoon we lost a bit of time as the team were fixing the rear end of the car after I crashed at the end of FP1.

"When we did get out, the speed was there but on the long run I made a mistake and lost the car at the exit of T8 and crashed into the barrier damaging the front wing. However, I know this circuit and the car has improved so I'll be up there tomorrow!"