Michelin back on pole

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Tomorrow, Juan Pablo Montoya will start from pole position for McLaren and for Michelin. It's the 14th pole of the season for Michelin (in 15 races so far). Michelin drivers dominated the Qualifying session. Fernando Alonso will join Montoya at the front, while the BAR Honda team mates Button-Sato will stand on row two.

Pierre Dupasquier, Michelin Motorsport Director “Both our compounds have worked very well here, but in the end most of our partner teams have chosen to run with the same type of tyre tomorrow. Despite the heat and extreme straight-line speeds, which have a habit of increasing rear tyre temperatures, we have had no signs of undue wear or blistering. There have been no real shocks today, with a clutch of Michelin runners at the front. There is always the chance of the race throwing up a few surprises, of course, but come what may I know that our tyres will be in good shape for what will be the fastest race of the year.”

Martin Whitmarsh, McLaren CEO “We had a good test before this event and worked very well with Michelin’s engineers to choose suitable ‘prime’ and ‘option’ tyres. Both proved to be really good and in the end it was quite difficult to make a choice, but the one we picked was quick over a qualifying lap and we are sure it will work very well for a full race distance. We are comfortable with our pace and think we have a good race strategy. Michelin has been a very strong partner here – I’d like to thank them for helping us to set the two fastest times. It’s a shame our cars won’t line up like that, but we have tyres that are capable of winning – even if circumstances have made it difficult for one of our drivers.”