Firman Delighted to be Back at Suzuka

Briton Ralph Firman was delighted to be back driving in Japan's Suzuka circuit despite setting a disappointing 17th fastest time in opening qualifying for the final Grand Prix of the season.

"It's great to be back here, it's like my second home and the only circuit this year that I know really well," said Jordan driver Firman, a former Formula Nippon champion. "I'm really enjoying it and it's only my second race coming back after the accident.

"I'm working well with the team and we've found a reasonably good balance but there's still more time to find, especially at the first corner, and our final position is a bit disappointing."

The British rookie outpaced his Jordan teammate Giancarlo Fisichella who, in his final Grand Prix with the Silverstone-based squad, had a poor start to his weekend, setting the 18th quickest time.

"It wasn't the best today," admitted the Italian. "I made a small mistake at the last corner and lost maybe a couple of tenths of a second, but then we are three seconds slower than pole anyway. But, it's my last race with Jordan and I will do my best because it's important for us to score some more points.

"I'd like to do that for the guys because in two years with them, I've had a good time. Obviously this season has been a bit tough but nevertheless the atmosphere in this team is fantastic."