The questions of a french revenge for the World Cup were thrown out of the window as Ferraris dominated Qualification and kept the charged-up Renault’s at bay. Michael’s spirited performance in the three sections of qualification was justified as he took Pole. Massa proved the Ferrari’s return by sealing the second spot.
Alonso’s heroics gave him a decent 3rd spot in the starting grid after he and Michael went no holds barred at the start of the 3rd qualification session. The two produced the higest overtakings we hv seen in a very long time by passing each other once right after they had a mano-e-mano when the session turned green.
Toyota’s were inpressive in quali for the first time qualifing ahead of the Mc Larens and Fisichella who look like they are on a heavier fuel strategy.
The race will be really intersting, clearly the Ferrari’s are faster in the first section of the race track and the Renault in the second and third(Alonso setting faster sector times). This means that the scarlet cars are faster in the faster section and Renault’s aerodynamics kick in, in the remaining part of the lap. This difference will be minute compared to the effect of track temp and tyres.
The race in my opinion will be clearly be between Alonso and Michael, the start and positions after the first lap will be the important factor. If it turnes out like Indy it can easily be Massa, Alonso and Michael to the first corner.
My Predictions:
1. Alonso/ Michael
3. Massa