Ferrari feeling optimistic

For the first time this year Ferrari failed to set the pace in a timed grand prix session as Kimi Raikkonen went fastest in free practice two. However, Michael Schumacher, who was third quickest, is confident that his Ferrari F2001 will be on the pace when it matters: in qualifying and the race

"The tyres are good and I am happy with their performance," he said. "We did not spend much time working on the actual set-up of the car, but I am pretty optimistic for the rest of the weekend. We expected the others to be fast here, but we have to remember that Friday's times do not always give a clear indication of the real situation."

Team-mate Rubens Barrichello was second fastest in the first session but fell back to seventh in the second after an engine failure curtailed his running. He also struggled with the heat - track temperatures were over 40 degrees Celsius.

"It was difficult all day and very hot," said the Brazilian. "We have lot of work for tomorrow, but I am confident all the same."