Heidfeld Optimistic of Strong Race

German Nick Heidfeld is optimistic of a strong Hungarian Grand Prix after setting the 11th fastest time in today's final qualifying session.

It was the Sauber driver's best qualifying result since the Austrian Grand Prix back in May.

"I'm quite happy with my lap time even though I made a bit of a mistake in the second corner," admitted Heidfeld. "In general, this result confirms the improvements we have made recently to the C22.

"This morning we did some long runs and improved there, too, so I'm optimistic for the race tomorrow."

Teammate Heinz-Harald Frentzen endured a disappointing day, his qualifying lap only good enough to put the veteran German in 17th position.

"The car was oversteering quite a bit which made the handling difficult," said Frentzen. "I think to do better was not possible. My mistake in the second corner didn't actually cost me that much time, but we need to look at the data analysis before we can understand why I lost time in the second sector."