Liuzzi hindered by gearbox problems

The Toro Rosso driver made it to Q2 for the first time in three races, but then traffic and a problem with his car's gearbox meant he had to settle for 16th position.

"At the end, the gearbox would not accept any downshifts and we will have to find out why," explained the Italian.

"At the start of the week, I did not expect to be in Q2, but we did a lot of work yesterday night and this morning it was clear the car was improved with a big step forward in terms of balance.

"We were still struggling a bit with understeer in qualifying though, which cost me time in Turn 5. I also had some traffic in my second run in Q2 and then the gearbox problem."

Scott Speed also made the cut, the American finishing right in front of his teammate.

Despite a promising showing, Speed reckons Toro Rosso still need a few tenths to be able to fight in the midfield.

"Our pace was similar to what we had in Magny-Cours," said Speed. "When it comes time for everyone to go for a qualifying lap, me and Tonio have a bit less in hand.

"Maybe it's because we push one another in practice, so we are getting the most out of the car then, without keeping anything in reserve for qualifying. Fifteen and sixteen is not bad, but we need to find a couple more tenths to really be fighting in the middle of the pack."