Set-up gamble backfires for Schumacher

"Obviously qualifying was not ideal for us today," said Schumacher, who will start the race from 14th position, eight places behind team-mate Nico Rosberg.

"After yesterday's performance, we purposely went for a different set-up which was supposed to tell us more about the car and was targeted more towards the race.

"It seemed to be reasonable this morning but as the track became hotter in qualifying, it went against us. Our set-up should work better in the race although starting from 14th place does not make it easy.

"Being on the dirty side of the starting grid does not specifically help, but I will certainly try again to have a good start tomorrow. And from then on we will have to see how the race develops."

Rosberg, on the other hand, was delighted with his sixth place, which he admitted he was not expecting after a difficult practice.

"I'm pleased to be starting from sixth place as we didn't think we would be that far forward today, so it's an unexpected and pleasant surprise," said Rosberg. "We are a long way from the front which is a concern but we took everything that we could from today and I am happy with our performance.

"We did a very good job with the set-up which meant we could get the best out of the car. Hopefully I can have a good start and our aim as always is to make up a few more places and get some decent points again."