Spanish GP: Bridgestone Saturday notes

Ferraris battle it out for pole

Pole position belonged to Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro in qualifying for the Spanish Grand Prix, with Michael Schumacher finally stealing the top spot from his teammate Rubens Barrichello in the dying minutes of the session. Rubens held onto provisional pole for most of the qualifying hour, being the first driver to post a sub 1:17 time and later managing to improve his time just three minutes from the end.

However, within a minute Michael went even quicker on his third flying lap. The Ferrari-Bridgestone front row is a repeat of that seen two weeks ago at Imola. Sauber Petronas also looked strong with Nick Heidfeld and Felipe Massa qualifying 8th and 11th respectively. Heinz-Harald Frentzen qualified 10th in an improved OrangeArrows.

Hisao Suganuma, technical manager, Bridgestone Motorsport

"An encouraging result which gives us confidence for the race but we are certainly not over confident because of the familiar challenges this track throws up like the abrasive surface and the load on the tyres through the corners. However, we have a lot of data from testing the tyres for this track which, again, gives me reason to believe that we should be able to show a competitive performance in the race. Strategy-wise, two or more pit-stops are likely here because of the high fuel effect and the potential for degradation."

Ross Brawn, technical director, Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro

"It is always very good to have both drivers competing for pole position. Rubens has settled in very well with the new car. He is getting more confident because of that and is able to compete with Michael much more, which Michael enjoys. We are happy with the Bridgestone tyres and happy with the car but we don't really know what the opposition is like when they run a lot of fuel, and we still have to make a good start and establish a good strategy. Overall, we are pleased with the way things have gone so far."

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