Villeneuve not worried despite poor pace

The Canadian could only finish in 24th position after being unable to complete a clean, fast lap during the afternoon session.

And although Villeneuve was not happy with the handling of his car, the BMW driver said it was too early to start worrying.

"I am not that sure how things really are because on the last run there was a lot of traffic and I did not do a proper lap," said Villeneuve. "The car is sliding a lot so we need to work hard on the set-up.

"Actually it was not too bad. It is nothing to worry about yet, but for now the cars are not that competitive."

Villeneuve's teammate Nick Heidfeld echoed the Canadian's concerns about the handling of the F1.06 car, and the German is hoping things improve for qualifying.

"Although we had no technical issues, I was not happy with the balance of my car," said Heidfeld, 20th quickest. "The rear was very nervous. However, we have practiced today, we now have the information and the data, and for tomorrow we have to improve the car."