Disappointed Trulli Still Hopes for Points

Renault driver Jarno Trulli was hindered by a gearbox problem during today's qualifying for the United States Grand Prix.

Italian Trulli, the only man to beat World Champion Michael Schumacher this season with a stirring victory in Monaco, failed to set a time, having to be pushed out of the pitlane by his mechanics and later coming straight back in without completing his lap.

Trulli, who retired seconds into the race in Canada, will start at the back of the grid.

"Naturally, I'm extremely disappointed," admitted Trulli. "I had trouble exiting the garage because first gear would not engage, and then the car would not change gear properly on my lap; at this time, we think the problem was caused by the steering wheel.

"Looking ahead, it will be tough race tomorrow but we can still look to score points."

Spanish teammate Fernando Alonso enjoyed a better session, posting the ninth quickest time of the day.

"We have improved the car a lot since yesterday, and the engineers have done a great job to give us a much more competitive car," said Alonso. "I didn't have any problems on my lap, and made no mistakes; in fact, I am feeling quite confident for tomorrow.

"I am only starting from ninth, but the times are very close and given our fuel load, I think we are on a good strategy. The tyres are working well, so everything is in place for a strong race."