Renault Pair Upbeat after First Qualifying

Spaniard Fernando Alonso is optimistic of a strong performance in tomorrow's qualifying following the opening session for the Brazilian Grand Prix.

"I am quite satisfied with today's work," admitted Alonso after posting the ninth quickest time. "This morning we were able to do some work in view of the race, especially on set ups and tyres and this afternoon I was happy with my laptime.

"However, the track kept changing and it's difficult to say where everybody is. I am very optimistic for tomorrow's qualifying and Sunday's race."

The Renault driver, who became the youngest ever pole position setter in Malaysia two weeks ago, outpaced his teammate Jarno Trulli in today's session. The Italian driver posted the 12th fastest time, but like his teammate he was confident of doing better in tomorrow's grid-deciding session.

"I am very happy with the way my car feels both on dry and wet conditions," he said. "Unfortunately during this afternoon qualifying my run was done under extremely wet conditions, but I still managed to set a reasonable lap time. The team has done a very good job all day and I am sure I will improve my position in tomorrow's qualifying."