Alonso pleased with new aero package

The French constructor expected to be strong around the technical Silverstone circuit, and technical director Mike Gascoyne is confident that, with the right strategy, the team can achieve a podium finish in the race.

""Everything went well all day," said Alonso. "We had no problems with the car during the various sessions, and we found a good balance for my timed lap. The new aero package is better everywhere, with more grip all the way round the lap. I hope we will be able to fight with the top teams again this weekend."

Jarno Trulli had a few problems with the set-up of his car, but was still able to qualify sixth, just 0.056s slower than his team-mate. The performance of both cars has given technical director Mike Gascoyne high hopes for the race.

"We expected this to be a competitive weekend for us, and it is proving to be so," said Gascoyne. "Fernando had a good balance on the car all day, and was able to achieve fourth. Jarno struggled more this morning, but did an excellent job with his engineers to improve the car and set a very good time in qualifying. Tomorrow, we need to look to get more out of the car, and pick the right strategy to allow us to fight for the podium on Sunday."