Montoya Confident of Strong Weekend

Colombian Juan Pablo Montoya was in a positive mood following a strong performance in Friday's practice for the Canadian Grand Prix, the eighth round of the 2002 Championship.

Having won last year's race in dominant fashion, the Williams team are among the favourites to score their second victory of the season at the Canadian circuit, and Montoya confirmed that by setting the second quickest time of the day behind McLaren's David Coulthard.

"I feel that we are going to have a strong weekend here," said Montoya. "We knew we had a good chance on this track based on last year's result, as the car was very competitive and Ralf won the race.

"The Michelin tyres look strong again and we know we've got a powerful engine. It will be a challenge tomorrow and in the race on Sunday, as the margin between the teams at the top is very tight."

Ralf Schumacher, winner last year at the Gilles Villeneuve circuit, admitted he was very happy with his car's handling despite finishing three places behind his teammate. The German, who is tied with Montoya in the Championship standings, is looking for a place on the front two rows in tomorrow's qualifying.

"I am very pleased with my car," said Schumacher. "The balance is good even though there is still room for improvement. It has been a trouble free practice day, where we have completed the programme we had scheduled.

"Also the tyre choice should not be a difficult one. I think that tomorrow we should be aiming for a place on the front two rows."