Confident Raikkonen Targets Victory

Under dark and threatening rain clouds at Hockenheim, the Finn set a time of 1:14.576 in the second session and was bettered only by his team's third driver Austrian Alexander Wurz.

Wurz, who also set the best time in the first session, powered around the 4.574 km circuit in 1:13.973 as he made the most of his opportunity to shine.

But Raikkonen, who has never finished a Formula One race in four attempts at Hockenheim, will be satisfied to be on the pace with his engine intact after failures cost him 10 places on the grid at the last two races.

"We spent today working on our race set-up," said Raikkonen. "The car was quick almost immediately which is always a good sign, and we could spend some more time on our Michelin tyre programme.

"I'm looking forward to the rest of the weekend where I hope that the weather will stay dry and sunny. The aim is to win the race and after today's sessions I'm certain that we have a very strong package which will allow us to do that."  

The third McLaren driven by Colombian Juan Pablo Montoya, the winner at Silverstone two weeks ago and at Hockenhem two years ago with Williams, was fourth fastest after struggling with the balance of his car.

"The car looks very competitive compared to the rest of the field, and the Michelin tyres are working well," said Montoya. "However, I'm struggling with the brake balance which is so important here at Hockenheim. I'm sure that we will find a solution to the problem in time for tomorrow's qualifying.

"I will be doing my flying lap last for the first time this year which hopefully will provide me with a bit of an advantage, but as always anything can happen particularly if it starts raining."