Happy Massa predicts tight race

The Ferrari driver will start from the top spot for the third consecutive time, a for the sixth time in his career, following his poles in Malaysia and Bahrain.

Alonso seemed set to repeat last year's feat until Massa spoiled the party for the Spaniard's fans when he crossed the finish line with the countdown clock already at zero.

"Definitely it is very nice. Three pole positions in a row this year so I have a really quick and great car," said Massa.

"I am happy to see the job of the team, for sure. I am really happy to be first in qualifying and we are looking forward to having a good race.

"I am really happy to be here, tomorrow will be difficult and tight race for all the Spanish people and everyone watching, hopefully we can have some good laps and a good race."

Massa outqualified his teammate Kimi Raikkonen again, the Finn having to settle for third place for the third race running.

Raikkonen admitted he was happy with his car over the first two sectors of the circuit, but struggled with the handling in the final one.

"I think it is better than nothing," said the Finn. "I was happier today with the car, I think we had good speed in the first two sectors but lost it all in the last. The car was difficult to drive.

"We have to get that right for tomorrow so we can drive, but it is not a bad position and we will see what happens."