Trulli positive despite third row start

"It was an interesting and tough qualifying session for me today, particularly Q1 and Q2 when I struggled a little on a low fuel load but we made it into Q3 which is the main thing," said Trulli, who had started from pole position in the previous race in Bahrain.

"In Q3 the grip was much better with more fuel on board and the car reacted well so I was able to push hard. At the end of the session I managed to put in a very good lap so I am pleased with my performance and I think seventh on the grid is pretty good considering the fuel I have on board.

"I believe my strategy is a good one so today's result was positive and I am optimistic for a good result in the race," added the Italian.

Toyota team-mate Timo Glock qualified right ahead of him, but the admitted he was expecting to be closer to the front of the grid.

The German said he will still try to score a podium finish tomorrow.

"I am reasonably satisfied to be starting in the top six, especially as the practice sessions didn't go completely to plan," said Glock. "I struggled a bit in practice with car stability but we worked hard to improve that and qualifying sixth is not a bad result so we have to be happy with it.

"Obviously we hoped to be a bit closer to the front but other teams have made a step forward this weekend and the competition is really close.

"I've scored points in all the races so far this season and starting from the third row gives me a good opportunity to keep up that run. Finishing on the podium will not be easy but of course I'll be pushing as hard as possible and we'll see what happens in the race tomorrow."