Alonso eyes strong result on Sunday

The double world champion, who had topped the times in final practice in the morning, was unable to repeat the feat in the afternoon but still managed an encouraging result.

Alonso reckons he should be able to put on a strong performance in dry conditions.

"It was a difficult qualifying session with changeable track conditions, wind and rain," said Alonso. "But we have done our maximum and so overall it's a satisfying result for the team. If the race tomorrow takes place in normal conditions, we can hope to have a strong finish.

"If it rains, the race will be open and anything can happen. I must now prepare for that and will give my all once again to achieve a good result."

Teammate Nelsinho Piquet completed his best qualifying performance of the season, setting the seventh fastest time in Q3.

The Brazilian, who scored his first F1 points in France to weeks ago, was pleased with his effort.

"I'm very happy with today's qualifying session," he said. "The car felt good and we were improving lap by lap. I struggled a bit at the end of Q3 with Heidfeld, but it worked out OK in the end and so it does look promising for tomorrow.

"Now I'm looking forward to the race and I hope we can put on a good show in the team's local race."