Brazilian GP: Ferrari Friday qualifying notes

Jean Todt:

'The rain was the main factor today. We were not able to do many laps and so, if the track is dry tomorrow, we will have to make the most of the ninety minutes of free practice to prepare the cars for Sunday’s race. As for tomorrow afternoon’s qualifying session, we can claim to be in a good position, given that both drivers will make their runs in the final part of the session. In theory, this is an advantage, but it all hangs on the weather. Rubens lost first place in the very last moments, when the track was probably a bit less wet, while Michael set the fifth fastest time despite running when the rain was at its hardest. Today’s grid reflects the spirit of the new regulations, which are designed to increase the level of unpredictability.'

Rubens Barrichello:

'This has been quite a tricky day with plenty of emotions. This morning we had too much rain for the tyres we have here. This afternoon the track was much better and I was able to push hard with the car. I am happy, even if I was surprised that Webber beat me. But when you are running in these conditions where the track is drying out, you should expect this sort of thing. I enjoyed myself out on the track and am happy with my position. Being in the top four is good enough for tomorrow, even if the second qualifying might be a lottery as we don’t know what conditions to expect.'

Michael Schumacher:

'The rain meant that track conditions were difficult, but not unacceptable, although it was aquaplaning which caused me to spin on my 'out' lap. All in all, fifth place isn’t bad. Tomorrow I will do my lap in the final part of the session. Whether or not that will be an advantage we will only know during qualifying, given the uncertainty over the weather. I hope we can run in the dry tomorrow morning so that we can use free practice to prepare the car for Sunday’s race.'

Ross Brawn:

'Weather conditions were the deciding factor today. Rubens did a super lap, in conditions where there was the right amount of water for the tyres we had. I think the regulation which says we are only allowed to have one type of wet tyre should be reconsidered, because it compromises safety. Michael caught the shower so he was not able to push so hard, but both drivers are in good positions for tomorrow, so I am fairly happy with our work today.'

Qualifying - First session
Rubens Barrichello 2nd 1.23.249 3 laps F2002 chassis 222
Michael Schumacher 5th 1.25.585 3 laps F2002 chassis 225
Temperatures: air 21/220C, track 240 C

Free practice
Michael Schumacher: 1st 1.28.060 9 laps F2002 chassis 225
Rubens Barrichello 2nd 1.31.462 6 laps F2002 chassis 222
Temperatures: air 20/22 0C, track 23/24 0C

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