German GP: Ferrari Saturday qualifying notes

Rubens is third after the two Williams, Michael in third row

Jean Todt:

"Once again we have witnessed a very closely contested qualifying session. Rubens' time was only beaten by the two Williams, which ran right at the end of the session. The qualifying result might not necessarily reflect how the race will turn out and I hope we will see a different order tomorrow. As usual, when it comes to the race, parameters such as reliability and car, engine and tyre performance will be key factors. We hope to notch up a good result for both championships and we know we are capable of doing so.'

Rubens Barrichello:

"The car is a lot better than yesterday and for that I have to thank the engineers and mechanics for all their hard work overnight and this morning. I was very close to pole, but I was on the limit and could not have done better and I did not want to compromise my race. Most of our improvement came in the third sector. The tyres survived well and I know they can do the same over a long distance."

"It seems that the race could be almost as hot as Malaysia, but I know what to do to look after my tyres in the race. So, I hope to make a good start, keep up with the Williams and then we will see who can do consistently good lap times. It might not be looking quite as good as Silverstone, but I am still confident for tomorrow. I am aiming for the top step of the podium.'

Michael Schumacher:

"The handling of my car was not ideal this afternoon, so like yesterday, this was not one of my best qualifying runs. I lost time in the second sector and things just did not work out the way I would have liked. Sixth place is not great for the start, especially with the Williams on the front row. However, from a championship point of view, Raikkonen is alongside me so that is not too bad. However, we know that our car performs well in terms of consistency over a long run, so we will have to wait and see how things develop. As usual, I will try my best."

Ross Brawn:

"All in all, it was a good qualifying session. I don't think we could have beaten the Williams, but I still feel we are in a strong position for the race. Our tyres seem to be consistent, which means we can face tomorrow afternoon with confidence. Having secured third place, Rubens will be able to get away from the clean side of the track. Michael did not get a good second sector, otherwise he would have been much nearer the front."

Rubens Barrichello: 3rd
1.15.488 3 laps
chassis 230

Michael Schumacher: 6th
1.15.898 3 laps
chassis 231

-ferrari-