Vickers changes engine and loses pole

Vickers had claimed pole position during Friday's qualifying session but his team decided to make a precautionary engine change on his Red Bull Toyota, as they were worried about excessive wear in one of the cylinders.

"There was something wrong with a cylinder," Vickers said. "They found some issues with the metal and the oil. If it didn't blow up the next lap on the track, it probably wouldn't be far away from it.

"We opted to change the engine knowing what was coming. It is frustrating, but the most important thing really in qualifying these days is pit selection and the trophy."

Although Vickers will loose his initial starting spot, he will still be credited with pole position and will maintain his first pit-box selection, which will be key during the race. He says the track characteristics will allow him to recover and move up the field during the race.

"You always have to be patient, but it's a track where it spreads out a lot," Vickers said. "You can run the top. You can run the bottom. It gives you more ability to pass cars and get to the front.

"You've just got to be patient, be smart with the moves you make. It is a long race. There is plenty of time to get to the front."

Vickers engine was not the first to face issues as Michael Waltrip also encountered engine problems on his Toyota during Friday qualifying.