Michael Schumacher puzzled by gap to Nico Rosberg in tough Indian Grand Prix qualifying

There was a 0.8-second gap between the two Germans in Q2 at Buddh, as Rosberg made the Q3 cut and Schumacher was left in 12th on the grid.

"Qualifying today was not really very good for us," said Schumacher.

"At first I hit some traffic, and then on my final run in Q2, there was again vibrations on the set of tyres which I used which was not helpful.

"Saying that, this certainly does not explain the time gap to Nico so we need to understand what the reason was for that and get on top of it."

The seven-time champion is optimistic that he can still move forward in the race.

"As for the race tomorrow, this should work out better for me, and my aim undoubtedly is to score some points," said Schumacher.

Rosberg ultimately qualified seventh - and felt he could have done even better but for minor damage to his car and the yellow flags for Felipe Massa's Ferrari.

"I'm pleased that we made a step forward today but we could perhaps have finished higher," said Rosberg.

"In Q1, I hit a kerb quite heavily and damaged the floor which lost some of the car's downforce for the rest of qualifying.

"I was on my quickest lap at the end of Q3 but unfortunately I had to slow down for the yellow flag after Felipe's incident so that cost me some time.

"I will push hard to gain places tomorrow and have a good race on this fantastic track."