• Bahrain Grand Prix Qualifying

Massa happy to be back

Massa outpaced Alonso for second © Sutton Images

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• Race:
• Bahrain Grand Prix

• Championship:
• FIA Formula One World Championship

• Drivers:
• Fernando Alonso
• |
• Jenson Button
• |
• Lewis Hamilton
• |
• Felipe Massa
• |
• Nico Rosberg
• |
• Michael Schumacher
• |
• Sebastian Vettel
• |
• Mark Webber

• Teams:
• Ferrari
• |
• McLaren
• |
• Mercedes
• |
• Red Bull

Report - First blood to Vettel | Qualifying gallery

If Sebastian Vettel confessed himself surprised with is pole position, a further surprise came with Felipe Massa outpacing new Ferrari team-mate Fernando Alonso as the double world champion had been the better of the two throughout practice.

For a driver who required life-saving surgery last season, his second place on the grid was a significant step forward in his rehabilitation to become a championship contender.

"It's definitely great to be back and being competitive. I feel really happy to be back after such a difficult time," said Massa."After watching the races on television, it is much better to be sat in the car, and after what happened last season, this is a good start for the team. It's great for the guys."

Despite the euphoria of finishing on the front row, the Brazilian is experienced enough to know that Sunday's race will not be easy against strong opposition.

"I feel really positive starting from second, but Red Bull and some other teams are strong, so let's wait and see, but I'm really optimistic."

Alonso also seemed happy enough with third on the grid on his debut qualifying outing for Ferrari.

"Everything has been great so far," said Alonso. "We're competitive in all conditions, and to be second and third is a great achievement from everybody in the factory in Maranello.

"They've been flat out since November day and night, so this is a real achievement. Two cars in the top three shows we have a very good car."

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