Panis Targets First Points of 2004

Frenchman Olivier Panis is confident of scoring Toyota's first points of 2004 at Sunday's Bahrain Grand Prix after a strong showing from the Japanese squad in today's qualifying.

After struggling for pace at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Toyota showed positive signs in Malaysia two weeks ago, and had a very positive session in Bahrain today, with both their drivers qualifying in the top ten.

Panis, the oldest man of the F1 grid, finished in eighth position and is optimistic of scoring points tomorrow.

"I am happy with my qualifying lap today. We have both cars in the top ten, so now we have to continue to be strong and to push to the maximum," Panis said. "I believe we are on a good strategy and we have shown reliability in the first two races, so we have to think of getting to the end of the race in the points.

"The whole team is working very well together and today has been an excellent result for everybody."

Toyota's good day was completed by Cristiano da Matta's performance, as the Brazilian finished right behind Panis in ninth position.

"I think our car suits this type of smooth surface track, and we have also benefited from competitive Michelin tyres," said da Matta. "In qualifying, we tried a slightly lower fuel lap for the first session and it appeared that the track conditions were not as favourable compared to the morning.

"We topped the fuel up more for the important second run, and overall I am pleased to be starting the race from ninth. With both cars in the top ten, I think we can target a points finish tomorrow, like we almost achieved in Malaysia two weeks' ago."