Ferrari, Alonso: "We will try to put pressure on our closest rivals"

Fernando Alonso is not very surprised by the result of qualifying for the Japanese GP. The Spanish Ferrari driver, however, is determined to put pressure on his rivals in front.

Fernando Alonso: “I'm not very surprised by this result: after all, McLaren and Red Bull were always faster than us all weekend and, at least, we both managed to place ahead of Webber. I signed up for fifth place this year and, at least, I'll start on the clean side of the track. Tomorrow I expect a race characterized by significant tire degradation so, with the possibility of numerous pit stops, strategy will play a very important role. Let's hope we don't have the same problems we had two weeks ago in Singapore. We will try to make the best choices and fight for the podium, our realistic goal. Victory is certainly further away: as seen from qualifying here, McLaren seems to be very close to Red Bull. The start will also be a significant moment: both Felipe and I will try to put pressure on our closest rivals and then, if we were to gain positions, we will try to play our cards. My first attempt in Q3? I was pushing hard but, after looking at the time analysis, I don't think I could have done much better than my second attempt.”