Alonso pins hopes on race eventualities

The former world champion failed to make it to the top ten shootout for the second time this season and had to settle for 12th position.

The result left the Renault driver disappointed, but Alonso is still hopeful a hectic race could play into his hands.

"I am understandably disappointed with the qualifying session because I had other hopes for today," said Alonso. "The race tomorrow will therefore be more difficult, but, as we are on a street course, anything is possible in the race.

"We must continue working hard this evening to try and work out the best strategy that will allow us to be ready for all eventualities tomorrow, such as a safety car period, which seems quite likely."

Teammate Nelsinho Piquet was also unhappy with his performance after finishing in 15th position.

"I am disappointed with my qualifying, and I could probably have set a better time this afternoon," he said. "I don't think our result shows our true pace because Fernando also failed to reach Q3 when we both had the potential.

"I will now work with my engineers and prepare for an aggressive race to move up through the field tomorrow."