Saturday: Alonso and Ferrari do not surrender

Fernando Alonso – 8th and 8th [7th on the grid]:

I am not surprised by this position because it’s not as if we were expecting a revolution in terms of performance within a week. I think I had a good qualifying session and, given how the last races have gone, my chances of finishing on the podium remain intact. That will be my goal because I know that, under normal circumstances, we cannot fight for the victory. I know that if I should have any hope for the title, it’s better to count on a Vettel retirement rather than on being able to finish ahead of him in the standings.

Obviously, I am here hoping for a chaotic race and the rain could be an important factor even if, in the rain, it is riskier for everyone. The car is not particularly set up for the rain, as that’s not how we proceed. The fact that Felipe is ahead of me? He had a great qualifying session, performing above the norm, as we expect him to do. It’s almost a miracle to arrive at the last race still in contention for the title: under normal conditions, I think we would have said goodbye to our chances at Monza or Singapore. But we are here, still in the game, and we are clearly not going to give up today.

Felipe Massa – 10th and 5th:

« It was a good qualifying session: in Q3, I did a perfect lap, the best I could have done with what I have. McLaren and Red Bull were faster than us, but I’m happy with the balance of my car. Now, we can stay focused on the race, which will be anything but simple. Rain is expected and anything can happen. In these conditions, even just finishing will be a great achievement. Surprised by my position? Maybe some people think I just learned to drive at 31, but joking aside, it’s the result of feeling more comfortable with the car since mid-season and having more confidence to attack. My approach to this race will be very simple: I will try to do my best for my fans and Ferrari. I have a good car, even if it’s not the fastest in qualifying, but it’s competitive in the race. »