Button predicts stronger outing in Turkey

Despite failing to shine in yesterday's qualifying, Button put on a strong race, going on to finish in sixth position for his and team's first point-scoring result of the year.

The Briton, however, believes he could have done better if not for a safety car period at the wrong time.

And despite his points finish, Button says the Barcelona circuit did not suit Honda's car, and he is confident they will be stronger in the next race.

"It was a good race for us today and I'm really pleased to finish in sixth with three points," he said. "Unfortunately the safety car came out at the wrong time for us, although I am pleased to hear that Heikki is okay. I was on a long first stint so it was bad timing and definitely cost me some places.

"The car was working well with the balance improving lap by lap, particularly on the last stint with harder tyres where I felt very comfortable. The team are doing a really good job and we are benefiting from Ross' technical management.

"I got a really good feel for the new aero package during the race today and it is definitely an improvement. The good thing is that what we are seeing from the car reflects the information from the wind tunnel.

"This circuit is not the best for our car as it's a bumpy circuit here and we seem to lack some driveability over the bumps. When we get to the next race in Turkey, I expect the car to perform better than here."

Teammate Rubens Barrichello retired from the race after his car was damaged as a result of contact with Giancarlo Fisichella during his pitstop.

"The car was performing well today so it was especially disappointing that the incident in the pitlane with Fisichella brought my race to an end," he said. "From what we can see, it was just one of those unfortunate incidents. The team released me and advised me of traffic, so I stayed out of the fast lane.

"Fisichella overtook me and cut into his box clipping my front wing at the same time. I managed to get round the lap with the wing caught under the front of the car but unfortunately the damage caused to the bodywork was too great to continue and I was forced to retire. It's a shame as I could have scored some good points today."