Kubica fights balance issues to shine

The Pole driver equalled his best qualifying performance by finished the session in fifth position, also outqualifying teammate Nick Heidfeld.

Kubica admitted he was not completely happy with the handling of his car, but he is optimistic of a strong race tomorrow.

"I am happy after that as I think the position is good considering I struggled with the balance of my car," said Kubica. "This morning it was looking better, but then this afternoon I picked up oversteer.

"I hope tomorrow the condition of the track will be better with more rubber down, which should help me with my oversteer.

"I am now looking forward to a good race tomorrow with no problems. We are third in the championship and today we were the third strongest team."

Heidfeld finished two places behind Kubica and the German admitted he was pleased with the result.

"I am happy so far as my last lap was pretty good," said Kubica. "The balance of my car was alright, and after yesterday's free practice we only did very minor changes.

"After only one run in Q2 we were already safe for the top ten, which means I have again saved a set of fresh tyres for the race. Normally my starts are quite good and luckily my grid position is on the clean side of the track."