Alonso not surprised by qualifying struggle

Renault had said for some time that it didn't expect to be as strong at the A1-Ring as it was in Spain, because the Austrian track rewards powerful engines. The French manufacturer's current V10 is known to be significantly down on power compared to its main rivals.

"We knew this is not the best circuit for our car, so I am not too surprised by my position today," said Alonso. "I had a straightforward lap, but going out third didn't help me too much as the track was not in the best conditions. I am confident I can improve tomorrow."

Jarno Trulli agreed with his team-mate. "We have a lot of work ahead of us before tomorrow's qualifying, since, as we expected, this track does not suit the R23," he said. "However, the potential of the car is there, and it is simply a matter of finding the way to exploit it and I think we will be ok for the race."