Massa Optimistic of Strong Showing

The Sauber driver, boosted by a car which seems to be improving following a slow start of the season, posted the 12th quickest time of the day after making some changes to get a better balance following a difficult time in the morning session.

"I was very unhappy with the set-up of the car this morning," said Massa. "The balance was bad and it felt really nervous in the high-speed corners. We made a few changes for this afternoon and the car was transformed.

"It was quick right away, consistent and nice to drive again. I think we have a reasonable set-up now, so it was not a bad day after all. I'm feeling quietly optimistic."

Canadian teammate Jacques Villeneuve, who was elevated to fourth place in the San Marino Grand Prix following BAR's disqualification, was also encouraged by his start of the weekend despite finishing in 14th position.

"I'm pretty happy today," said the Canadian. "I was worried initially because we didn't have a very good test here recently, but it turned out not so bad. The balance wasn't great this morning but it was better this afternoon.

"It's not yet as good as Imola, but Felipe and I were working on different programmes so I'm sure that will improve tomorrow."

Villeneuve, however, said the new tarmac laid at the Barcelona circuit earlier this year had made his car feel "weird".

"The new surface here is very strange," he said. "It doesn't feel like any other asphalt that we race on. It's more like when you go indoor karting on concrete, so it gives you a weird feeling in the car. But it's the same for everyone."