Alonso: I'll be strong in the race as well

The Spaniard was unhappy with car his after first qualifying yesterday, but praised the work of his team to improve the set-up of the R4, although he did admit that he was right on the limit at the end of his flying lap.

"It is a great feeling to get my second pole position," said Alonso. "Our car has been competitive since the start of the weekend, and I don't see any reason why that should change tomorrow. I had some problems yesterday, but the mechanics worked hard to sort things out: I want to thank them, as well as my engineers.

"As for the flying lap, I didn't have any problems, but I was driving right on the limit towards the end of the lap. I think we are on the right strategy for tomorrow, and I'm looking forward to the race."

Whilst Alonso was understandably delighted to improve from sixth on Friday to pole today, his team-mate Jarno Trulli was disappointed to do the reverse, dropping from the top spot yesterday down to sixth today.

"I made some mistakes on the flying lap," admitted Trulli, "which must have cost me three or four tenths, and the car also lacked grip. Nevertheless, sixth isn't a bad grid slot, and I think I can fight for a podium tomorrow."