Formula 1: Minardi make up back of grid

Minardi team principal Paul Stoddart put a brave face on the team's performance in qualifying for the British Grand Prix.

Fernando Alonso and Tarso Marques will start from the back of the grid after finishing 21st and 22nd.

But Stoddart is hopeful the pair will turn around their fortunes during the race at Silverstone.

He said: "On a day of cold wind, rain and sunshine, [we] had hoped the changeable weather conditions might allow its drivers to qualify higher than their normal positions.

"Unfortunately, it was not to be, although it was definitely not for want of trying on the part of the drivers.

"In any event, that is what we have to work with, and as ever, the team will do its best to get a good result in the race for its many supporters around the world."

Marques, though, could not find much to cheer about. He said: "It has been extremely disappointing, but at least I can take comfort from the fact that I know I drove as hard as I could.

"Unfortunately, a throttle problem with the engine after the second run prevented me from improving my time in the way I normally would have expected."

Alonso, though, was looking on the bright side despite his 21st place.

He said: "Of all the qualifying sessions so far, I think this has been one of my best because the whole package was good - the car, the set-up, and my fastest lap.

"The grid position may be the same as usual, but I still feel happy because I know we did a very good job."