Verstappen Rues Lack of Downforce

Dutchman Jos Verstappen says his Minardi team will need more downforce in order to put on a more competitive showing at the European Grand Prix.

Verstappen, who in the wet first qualifying session wound up 16th, finished in 18th position in today's grid-deciding session, more than four seconds off pole and nearly two behind the closest of his rivals.

"I was reasonably happy with my lap time this afternoon considering the fuel load," said the Dutch driver. "This race track is obviously harder for us than the last one. We need more downforce to improve our lap times here."

Verstappen's teammate Justin Wilson finished right behind in 19th position.

"I'm fairly pleased with today's performance," the Briton said. "I lost out a bit to Jos in the first sector of the lap, but we are running different wing levels. Overall, I've been able to push Jos a bit today, so I'm pleased with that.

"The car is well enough balanced now, but we are just lacking grip here. I'm happy with our strategy for tomorrow and we'll see how things go in the race."