I can't race for the win tomorrow, says Schuey Jr

The young German had been battling with elder brother Michael for the top spot throughout the hour-long session. But in the dying minutes, his best time was pipped by the Ferrari of Rubens Barrichello, leaving him to settle for third place on the grid.

Afterwards Schumacher admitted that he had surprised even himself with his qualifying time - but said his Williams would not be battling for victory.

"Don't expect to see us racing against Ferrari or McLaren," he said. "There are still so many question marks against us here. I am not thinking about racing against Ferrari.

"I will be looking after myself and aiming for some points in the race."

His starting position equals his career-best third he claimed during qualifying for the 1997 French Grand Prix with Jordan.

But his performance today was due largely to the huge power of his BMW engine - said by some to be the strongest currently in F1 - the car's speed on the straights and his Michelin tyres.

"This track suits the tyres far better than Melbourne," he added.

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