"We did some useful work on the car this morning and that was reflected in our best lap time," Webber commented in a press release. "As ever, with Grand Prix weekends however you have to wait until qualifying to see how much more the other teams have in reserve.

"I would also have liked to get a little more out of myself this afternoon - I was perhaps trying a bit too hard in places. Overall, though, it was a good session, I learned a lot and now we'll aim to have a strong race tomorrow."

His team mate Alex Yoong added: "We improved the car from yesterday and had a smooth qualifying session this afternoon, steadily improving our laps times from the morning practice.

"My seat proved a little uncomfortable during the qualifying runs, so we'll have a look at that and try to improve it, but otherwise there is nothing particularly significant to mention. I'm feeling positive for tomorrow's race."

Webber had the use of a new, slightly more efficient rear wing in practice today, when he finished 14th.