Trulli confident of strong weekend

Trulli finished as fourth fastest in the afternoon at the Toyota-owned Fuji circuit, just behind the two McLarens and the Ferrari of Felipe Massa.

"Today was a positive start to the weekend," said Trulli, whose team have prepared especially hard for their home race.

"We put a lot of effort into our set-up programme, as well as looking at the tyres. It was a smooth day but we still need to do a bit of work on the car balance and, of course, we will be pushing hard to get even more speed from the car.

"The circuit did not have much grip today which was as expected but it is in a good condition and the facilities are great - everything looks good here. We are here in Japan for our home Grand Prix so we are working hard to have a good weekend.

"We are very motivated this weekend and I really hope we can get the best out of the car.

"I am confident about our chances and tomorrow I expect again to be fighting in the top 10 in qualifying."

German teammate Ralf Schumacher completed a good start to Toyota's weekend by posting the ninth quickest time.

"The afternoon session went well after a bit of a problem with oversteer in the morning," he explained. "The track conditions were tricky because of the low grip but that did gradually improve during the afternoon and the situation was the same for everybody.

"I must say I am impressed by the circuit here at Fuji Speedway. As a track it is nice and drivable, with an unusual last section. It is a challenge to find the best compromise for the high speeds we need on the start-finish straight, and the grip we need on the infield section.

"The facilities are obviously very good as well and I particularly enjoy racing in Japan after I spent a season racing Formula Nippon here. I am focused on getting a positive result this weekend and confident we have the opportunity to do that."