Mercedes, Schumacher: “We can also be competitive in the race”

Michael Schumacher is optimistic that Mercedes could also be in form in the Malaysian Grand Prix, after securing their best qualifying place since returning to Formula 1, with the third-fastest time in Sepang.

The seven-time world champion was only beaten by the two McLarens, and held a front row seat until overtaken by Jenson Button's fastest time.

Asked if he is worried about another collapse in race pace like in Australia, Schumacher replied: "I think we all have some concerns because these temperatures are quite new for us."

“We had good preparation yesterday. We did a decent job. We learned a lesson in Australia, we responded and the guys at the factory did a great job so I'm looking forward to racing tomorrow.”

He added: “I feel good and we have chosen a car that should work better in the race – this is the situation I hope will play out tomorrow.”

Schumacher said that no matter what happened in the race last Sunday, Mercedes' pace so far in both Australia and Malaysia has shown it is much improved compared to a year ago.

“It's a good result to see who is behind us,” he said. “We still have to progress a little.”

“We have a good development program, we work methodically and we stay focused and see what the season brings us.”

Nico Rosberg – 8th: “I would obviously like to be higher on the grid, but unfortunately I lost some time on my fastest lap after a mistake in the first corner which cost me a few tenths and left me with a lots of vibrations for the rest of the ride. However I am quite confident that we can compete very well tomorrow, we worked hard on our race pace over the weekend. I hope we can recover some positions and score some good points in front of our fans and our partner Petronas. “