Heidfeld Pleased to Escape Final Rows

German Nick Heidfeld was pleased to escape the final three rows of the grid for the inaugural Chinese Grand Prix at the Shanghai track.

The Jordan driver will start the race from 14th position, his best qualifying performance since the European Grand Prix back in May.

"The car is going quite well at this circuit, it seems to suit the track," said Heidfeld. "I learned the circuit pretty well and the engineers did a good job yesterday setting up the car. It felt good this morning and I'm quite happy with my lap - I didn't make any mistakes and the whole team did a good job.

"We had problems yesterday but we worked hard overnight and are in better shape now, with more than the usual number of cars behind us. I think the circuit is challenging and great fun, especially the first corner. It's outstanding."

Heidfeld's compatriot and teammate Timo Glock will, in only his second Formula One Grand Prix, posted the 17th fastest time, less than a second behind Heidfeld.

"In qualifying we had changed the car a little bit and it was a lot better," said Glock. "But again I lost half a second in corner 10. I feel bad because the first two sectors were really good and it's a shame that I lost so much time in the last sector. I think we are better prepared for the race.

"I love driving this circuit though, the first part is a bit tricky, but then there are some fast corners and the long straight and a hair pin. It's good fun and I enjoy it so I hope to have a good race."