Massa confident despite slow start

"We did a good job and I think we will be competitive at the track," said Massa, who finished as sixth fastest, over seven tenths of a second behind championship rival Lewis Hamilton.

"The performance level improved bit by bit as the track got more grip.

"In the first session, the car was a bit twitchy but then, especially in the second part of the afternoon session, its handling improved. I think we are working in the right direction in terms of car set-up.

"My aim for the weekend? Obviously I'll be trying to win or at least to get as many points as possible," added the Ferrari driver, fives points behind Hamilton with just two races to go.

Teammate Kimi Raikkonen, celebrating his 29th birthday today, also had a low-key practice, finishing as eighth fastest.

"It was nice to see so many fans in the grandstands to celebrate my birthday," said the Finn. "As usual it's difficult to judge the relative strengths of the teams just by looking at the results sheets.

"At the start, it could have been that our main rivals were quicker but then the situation seemed to balance out and I think that's how it will be for the rest of the weekend. Overall, the car's not bad even if there are still some areas that need to be improved."