Monaco GP Ferrari qualifying notes

Jean Todt: "It was a very spectacular session, even if the battle for the front two rows was between the usual quartet of drivers. The track was improving with every passing lap, so that the times came down in the final moments. Unfortunately, Michael was unable to exploit this on his final run, after brushing the barrier at Le Portier. For his part, Rubens had a good session, improving on every run. Tomorrow's race should be very close. It will be hard for the drivers, given that the slightest error can mean retirement and also for the cars, given the high temperatures and the stress exerted on them on this track."

Michael Schumacher: "I had to abort my first run as both Arrows were driving around without using their mirrors. In qualifying here, it is important to be running at the end, as the track is quicker then. My penultimate run was not perfect and then I had the incident at Le Portier on the final lap. I just turned into the corner too early and touched the barrier on the inside. I am happy to be on the front row, although I would rather be on pole. However, David did a better job today. I never got a perfect lap today. I am looking forward to the race, because I think it will be very open."

Rubens Barrichello: "This morning I had a few problems setting up my car. After practice, I worked with the engineers to improve the situation and I had a much more competitive car in qualifying. I am satisfied therefore, even though I am not starting from the front row, which is more of an advantage here than on other tracks. I flat spotted my front right tyre on my last run at the first corner, which cost me some time."

Ross Brawn: "It was a shame for Michael, who touched the barrier on his last lap, as he was going very quickly. We used a new front wing today, which produced good results. The cars went well and it was all down to getting a clear lap without traffic. Rubens did a great job, improving throughout the session and I am very happy with the way he went. Michael had two laps available to him on his last lap, which is why we used worn tyres on the front as they were more consistent over two laps. We used various combinations of new and used tyres and it was hard to work out exactly which was best."

-Ferrari