BMW drivers hit by engine failures

After making it to Q2, both drivers were forced to stop on track during the second qualifying segment when their engines suffered failures.

It means Kubica has only one new engine left for the remaining races, as he was using the seventh of the allocated eighth he has for the season.

"This is a very difficult situation for me, not only for this grand prix but also for the next races," said the Pole, who will start the race from 13th place.

"I do not have many engines left. It is also unfortunate for Nick who was very competitive here.

"Although I was struggling a bit I was quite confident of making it into the final qualifying session. I was struggling a little bit with the car in the first qualifying session, but it was better right from the start of the second one.

"I managed to do quite a good lap, but unfortunately had traffic for the next two laps. The engine problem makes my position for the final races of the season very complicated."

Heidfeld will start from 15th position.

BMW boss Mario Theissen said the team will analyse the cause of the problem, as the data showed both units had the same issue.

"As far as we can see from the data they both had the same problem," he said. "The two engines were new, therefore the reason cannot be too much mileage or too high stress. A thorough analysis will only be possible once we have dismantled the engines.

"Of course, this has a negative effect on our race prospects. We expected good grid positions on this track. Obviously the failures also influence our engine planning for the remaining races of the season."