Following smooth-running free practice sessions this morning, where Jordan Grand Prix personnel carried on with their preparations for Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix, working steadily through a technical programme aimed at finalising details for both qualifying sessions and the race, Narain Karthikeyan qualified in 17th position while Tiago Monteiro qualified 18th. Both drivers were reasonably satisfied with their provisional qualifying laps and are looking forward to the race, despite the fact that even hotter temperatures are expected for tomorrow afternoon.

Narain Karthikeyan: "It was a conservative lap as we are trying to save the Bridgestone tyres for tomorrow as much as possible, as the heat here will be hard on them during the race. It was not the best lap I could have done on this circuit but it was ok in the end."

Tiago Monteiro: "I made two little mistakes that cost me maybe two tenths but otherwise I am pleased with my lap time. I was very close to Narain and I am sure we are going to be close all year long. Besides I am feeling much better than in Melbourne where I had a pretty bad cold and now I am up to the fight."

Trevor Carlin: "Today's first qualifying session was a steady performance by both drivers. Under the circumstances of an unknown track for Tiago and Narain and the hot weather conditions, we qualified where we expected to be."