Ferrari admits disappointment

Michael Schumacher will start second, after making a mistake at the Variente Alta, and Rubens Barrichello was fourth fastest - splitting Williams team-mates Juan Pablo Montoya and Ralf Schumacher.

"It was a very exciting qualifying session, probably the most unpredictable so far this season," said Ferrari's technical director Ross Brawn. "Obviously, we are a bit disappointed not to be on pole in Imola, but we believe we have what we need to be competitive tomorrow, given that we still have both cars on the front two rows of the grid.

"Michael's final sector didn't quite come together and the same went for Rubens, who also lost a bit in the final part of the track, having managed, along with his engineers, to significantly improve his car compared to yesterday's free practice."

Sporting director Jean Todt added: "For the first time this season, we do not have a Ferrari on pole position. Doubtless, it will not be the last, just as there will be races where we will be back at the head of the field in qualifying."