European GP: Renault Saturday qualifying notes

Jarno third and Fernando sixth on the grid for the European Grand Prix, a strong result.

The Mild Seven Renault F1 Team finished qualifying for the European Grand Prix at the Nürburgring in extremely promising shape. Jarno Trulli will start tomorrow's race from third position, while his team-mate Fernando Alonso will be sixth on the grid. Both drivers were pleased with their cars' handling, and hope to run competitively tomorrow.

Jarno Trulli:

"It's hard to believe that I am here, in third position. I particularly want to thank my mechanics, who did a fantastic job preparing the car after an electrical problem in free practice. Honestly, I believe we have the best mechanics in the paddock here at Renault. It was a decent lap, and the car was handling well. I think we can be very strong in the race."

Fernando Alonso:

"I did a good lap, without any problems: the car balance was fine, and we are consistent on the long race runs. I think I am in a good position to finish in the top five tomorrow. Overall, I'm happy with my performance."

Pat Symonds, Executive Director of Engineering:

"Jarno qualified very well once more, on a track that is very different from Monaco. It looked like a clean lap, and his starting position should blend well with our strategy. Fernando also did a good lap, and will start from a strong grid position. I am sure that he will, as always, translate this to an even better finishing position."

Denis Chevrier, Engine Operations Manager:

"Today's results demonstrate how similar many of the cars are in terms of performance and strategy, if we omit Michael (Schumacher) from the equation. The final position confirm the order we saw develop yesterday, with some very small gaps. We did a good job preparing for the race during practice, and this result is a nice continuation of our recent competitiveness. It is very encouraging for tomorrow."

Jarno Trulli
3rd position
1:29.135

Fernando Alonso
6th position
1:29.313

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