We're Not as Quick as We Look, Says Irvine

Jaguar showed they have the potential to challenge for Championship points at the German Grand Prix with drivers Eddie Irvine setting the fastest time in today's practice while teammate Pedro de la Rosa was sixth.

Irvine fought off challenges from Juan Pablo Montoya to claim the fastest lap and was happy with his efforts and the improved performance of his Jaguar car. However, the Ulsterman is not expecting to repeat his performace on Saturday.

"That's the best handling car that I have ever driven around Hockenheim," Irvine said. "We're not as quick as we look but at the same time, we're not far away either. The Michelin tyres work very well here and combined with the recent aero changes to the car, the whole package has become a lot easier to drive.

"Monza allowed us to optimise the new package and given that I had missed the previous two tests because of my neck injury, it was my first opportunity to really understand that changes that had been made. With this car at this circuit, I think we can make up for some of these unreflective qualifying performances.

"We won't be at the front tomorrow, but we should certainly be setting our sights on P8 and above. From here, our race performance should become easier, hopefully allowing us to score some much-needed points."

Teammate Spaniard de la Rosa also benfited from the improved performance of the R2 as he recorded the sixth fastest time and he was delighted with his showing.

"The car got better and better each time I went out and I'd say that we're looking quite good here for the race," said de la Rosa. "The signs are good and we'll work hard to ensure that we're rewarded for today's good start."