Fernando Alonso says it is "too optimistic" for McLaren to target a spot in Q3 in qualifying at the Canadian Grand Prix.
Honda's power unit has been down on horsepower so far this season compared to its rivals, but following constant progress an updated engine this weekend is aimed at reducing the deficit at the high speed Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Having been in the top ten in FP1, Alonso says he doesn't believe it is a true reflection of McLaren's standing in the competitive order.
Asked about a place in Q3, Alonso replied: “That’s probably too optimistic.
"The top ten was just certain factors that helped us. In the second session we were P14, so let’s say something in the middle - P12 or P13 - is what we expect tomorrow.”
However, Alonso is confident McLaren has made another step forward in Montreal even if it's not enough to qualify in the top ten.
“I think it’s always a step forwards, what the team is bringing to the races. Yeah I think we need to confirm tomorrow, obviously when we put it in qualifying mode - the extra horsepower everybody is putting on Saturday - we need to find out where we are exactly because it’s only Friday.
“So far I’m happy with the balance of the car and the power delivery here. It seems that the characteristics of the track are also not perfect to us and position-wise we need to make a step forward hopefully tomorrow.”
Click here for Friday's gallery from the Canadian Grand Prix
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
