The fact that Ralf's appeal had this penalty overturned allowing him to retain his position on the front row was very pleasing for the WilliamsF1 driver.

After qualifying Ralf spoke of this by saying: "On one hand it is definitely a nice feeling, the team did a good job, we had difficulties this weekend for various reasons. Certainly being second I am not so happy with, especially with the fact that being on the inside on the dirty line is not the best place to be. But hopefully Fernando will be nice and kind to open the door tomorrow and then it will be a nice race."

As for his performance in qualifying, where Ralf saw Renault's Fernando Alonso take pole position, the German was on the one hand happy but on the other could not understand why he lost time and also why the Renault was so fast.

As for losing time Ralf added: "I have no reason for that actually. Everything felt nice and clean, no problems at all. But certainly we will look at the data and see what happened.

"I tried very hard, but it did not work out. I don’t know why the Renaults are so quick, I just don’t like the idea that they are. I know certainly they did a very good job here this weekend and we have to accept that.

"Didn’t run for the next two and that is what I don’t understand. I am a bit surprised. It was a very good second and third sector in my opinion. It was nice, clean, no mistakes, but I certainly have to look into that."

As for his tactics for the race Ralf was questioned as to whether he was running the same as Juan Pablo. Ralf said: "I don’t know, but I am sure I have the right one."


As for the new circuit layout Ralf  was happy in some aspects but not in others. He added: "I think technically it was a bit more demanding before now. We have two more braking corners. From a circuit point of view I think they did a good job in doing what they did. They have given us one more overtaking opportunity. I think into turn 10 is not good enough yet but I understand there is a second phase going to happen for next year sometime. It is less bumpy so it is definitely an improvement from that point of view. Technically I like the old circuit more.

"The straight is extended so I guess if you have a good exit out of the last corner then yes, it is easier."

As for his championship prospects Ralf made it clear that there were no team orders in respect of him assisting Juan Pablo, given Juan Pablo's position in the points tabel.

Ralf said: "Well, actually team orders are not allowed anyway so what are we talking about? I am trying to do my race as good as possible.

"Well, I am trying to do my race and obviously since I have qualified in front of him I hope that I stay where I am.