Williams facing tough tyre choice

Third driver Alexander Wurz proved that their Bridgestone choices for the weekend were quick on both long runs and first lap speed as he topped the timesheets - which makes picking the optimum tyre a more difficult task.

Wurz said: "This morning it was quite slippery and very dusty, resulting in low grip levels, but the circuit conditions improved and changed rapidly throughout the whole two sessions, which makes the set-up work quite difficult. Nevertheless, the more rubber went down, the better our package functioned, so I think that will play into our hands.

"I was pleased with my performance, especially with the first lap of the long runs, where I was really quick, and in the end I was the fastest overall.

"With regard to tyres, I am happy with the choice we have brought here from testing, but the better the choice to bring to the race weekend, the more difficult it is now to choose between the two compounds - it will be a very tight decision."

Nico Rosberg, who has plenty of experience of the Nurburgring circuit, welcomed the increased mileage that he was allowed to have for this race thanks to improvements from Cosworth.

"Today went quite alright," said the German, who ended the second session 11th fastest. "I put more laps than usual under my belt, and even if I know this track very well, having extra running time is helpful as driving here in a Formula One car is very different to my previous experience on this track.

"We have learnt several things from Alex and all three of us have tried a few variables on the set-up, which proved positive."

Mark Webber was less happy with how his day went, after ending up 16th on the timesheets.

"The pace is obviously there, we look okay here, but I am not happy with the car at the moment, so we have some more work to do tonight on the balance of the car and the tyre comparisons and get ourselves ready for tomorrow," said the Australian.