De la Rosa Rues Traffic Problems

Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa blamed traffic problems for being able to complete only one flying lap during Saturday's qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The Jaguar driver's progress was hampered by other cars in three of his four qualifying attempts, but despite that he was able to outperform his teammate Eddie Irvine, who finished in 16th place.

De la Rosa, who posted the 15th quickest time with the Cosworth-powered R3B, claimed his time was very good considering the circumstances.

"It was very messy, and I only got one clear lap," said de la Rosa. "I got Eddie [Irvine] on the first one, then [Nick] Heidfeld and another guy that I can't remember. I was quite lucky that my only clear lap was my fastest, and that's a helluva time with this car.

"On the last one I was doing quite well and then I got Heidfeld, and he spoiled it completely. But this is Hungary â€" traffic all over the place."

De la Rosa, like many drivers at the dusty Hungarian circuit, complained about the lack of grip, but with higher temperatures expected for the race, the Spaniard is looking forward to a stronger performance.

"The car was good relative to how it has been up to today," he said. "We just need more grip. The balance was there, and to get into the 1m15s with this car was a good effort from the whole team. We'll see tomorrow. It's going to be hot, so maybe it won't be too bad for us."