Qualifying 2: Rain leaves Brits in cold

The third and final qualifying session takes place next Sunday, leaving Herbert with a difficult decision to make. The three-time GP winner is contracted to drive for Audi that weekend in round two of the ALMS at Sears Point. Non-participation in qualifying will mean his hopes of driving in his first 500 will be dashed.

So far only 24 of the 33 starting places for the race, which takes place on May 26, have been decided. Other drivers who have yet to qualify include Franchitti's team-mate Paul Tracy, former 500 winner Arie Luyendyk and IRL regulars Greg Ray, Airton Dare and Alex Barron.

The stakes have been upped for next Sunday's session by the decision of team owners Ron Hemelgarn, Tom Kelley and Chip Ganassi to enter T-cars into final qualifying. Drivers such as Memo Gidley, Steve Knapp, Scott Harrington, Jeret Schroeder and Donnie Beechler have been linked with the vacant seats.

Bruno Junqueira has already secured pole position for the Indy 500 after setting the pace on Pole Day. For a full report, click here.