Happy Trulli Targeting First Pole

Italian Jarno Trulli is aiming to take his first ever pole position after topping the times in Friday's qualifying for the Japanese Grand Prix.

It was the third time this year that the Renault driver had gone fastest in the opening session.

"The car has been well balanced ever since we started running and, even though I had some technical problems this morning, we have been quick throughout," said Trulli at the end of the session.

"I managed to get in a clean, mistake-free lap and I now have to look to repeat that performance tomorrow: the new rules make things more difficult, but after having taken three Friday 'poles' this year, I would like to get one on Saturday as well before the end of the season.

"If we manage that, we will be in a very strong position for the race."

Trulli outqualified his Renault teammate Fernando Alonso, who has started from the top stop twice this year. The Spaniard, however, wound up only sixth today.

"I did a normal lap, but within my limits: the day for taking risks is tomorrow," said Alonso. "Our package is working well here and as Jarno showed today, we are very competitive. I feel confident for the rest of the weekend."