Coulthard Not Expecting to Fight for Pole Position

McLaren driver David Coulthard played down his chances of claiming pole position for the Canadian Grand Prix and admitted he will be surprised if he is quickest in Saturday's qualifying session.

Scot Coulthard set the pace in Friday's free practice sessions as he continued his run of form following his victory in Monaco two weeks ago, but immediately played down the significance of his performance in practice.

"Friday doesn't show what will happen in qualifying - it is just one session," Coulthard said afterwards. "We will know where we are in qualifying. What we can do is evaluate the information we have. We will see where we are in Saturday qualifying."

Coulthard was one of five Michelin-shod drivers in the top-six and he admitted that the performance of the French tyres in the warm conditions in Montreal could play into his hands.

"I'm encouraged by the performance today and this circuit is like Monaco in that it will rubber down over the weekend," he said. "It gives me confidence but we will be surprised if we are quickest in qualifying.

"I will be pleasantly surprised if we are quickest, although the warmer the conditions the more the tyres carry."

Coulthard ended a year-long search for victory with a majestic drive in the streets of Monte Carlo two weeks ago to revitalise his season and the McLaren driver said that he is a lot happier following the success.

"The only time I have been disappointed was after the first two races because my expectations were high," he said. "We capitalised on an opportunity in Monaco and showed that if there is a chance I can take it. Naturally I'm a lot happy after winning in Monaco."