San Marino GP: Sauber Saturday notes

Imola, Saturday 13 April 2002

Nick Heidfeld and Felipe Massa qualified their Sauber Petronas C21s seventh and 11th fastest respectively for tomorrow's San Marino Grand Prix.

Nick Heidfeld:

"I'm really happy. Given the strength of the three top teams, seventh place feels as good as pole position. My car was really good today, and I might have gone even quicker if I hadn't lost a couple of tenths on the grass on my best lap. It's going to be difficult to challenge the people ahead tomorrow, but I'm confident for the race. I think we'll be okay for some more points."

Felipe Massa:

"This morning I lost a lot of track time with an hydraulic problem, and I think that was reflected in my performance this afternoon. I just didn't find the balance for the car. I had oversteer in the fastest corners and under braking. I wanted to qualify in the top 10, but though I'm disappointed to miss that, 11th isn't so bad."

Peter Sauber (Team Principal):

"Another seventh place in qualifying is a good feeling, especially as it is in front of strong competitors. It's a fantastic job by Nick and the team. After Friday Felipe had anticipated qualifying higher than 11th, but it's still a good place to start and his time will come."

Weather: Sunny and dry.
Driver (Chassis)
Heidfeld (C21-06) 1:22.767s, 7th
Massa (C21-03) 1:23.681s, 11th
Spare: (C21-01)

-sauber-