Monteiro Welcomes Late Run

The Portuguese rookie finished in third place in the controversial United States Grand Prix, as a consequence running very late in today's session and so getting the best track conditions.

That, however, did not seem to help Monteiro, who was unable to shine, finishing down in 19th place.

"It was a rather good lap, my best of the weekend so far," the Portuguese said. "We have had so many problems since yesterday, which delayed the programme we wanted to follow and limited my track time. Therefore I did not really know what to expect from the car.

"However, I have pushed really hard and I am satisfied with my time. It was also different to run later in the session as the track was definitively cleaner, I hope we will be able to do this again in the season."

Monteiro, looking for his 10th consecutive race finish on Sunday, was outqualified by his teammate Narain Karthikeyan, despite the Indian making some mistakes during his flying lap.

"My time was OK, I think," said Karthikeyan, 17th today. "I have made some mistakes, which cost me a little bit of time but generally it was a clean lap.

"We worked hard on the balance of the car and I am quite satisfied with the set-up we have found. Now we have to wait and see for the race tomorrow."