I'd love to make it to top ten - Heidfeld

It's not only motor racing enthusiasts, Formula One drivers are also excitedly anticipating the premier of Formula One's new qualifying format. BMW Sauber F1 Team driver Nick Heidfeld is extremely motivated for the qualifying session.

In the first free practice sessions of the 2006 season, Nick enjoyed a rather relaxed working day: "Everybody went out for some laps," Heidfeld said. "However, it's still far too early to make assessment."

The German expects that the picture will be clearer following the qualifying session that will be held for the first time in a knock-out format this year. "The qualifying will be extremely thrilling, particularly because of the new format. In the first quarter of an hour, all the 22 Formula One cars will be out there at the same time, with everybody trying to set competitive lap times. It's easy to lose out in this situation, as you can be hampered by traffic or yellow flags at the wrong point in time."

According to Nick, it's realistic to hope to qualify for the first five rows on the grid. Nevertheless, he is aware that there are a lot of competitive opponents. "There will be a lot of action going on in the second quarter of the session. And although I'd love to make it to the top ten I know I will have to push hard to make this goal come true."