Felipe Massa qualified 10th in what will be his very last participation in the Malaysian Grand Prix.
The Williams driver advanced easily to Q3, enjoying solid runs in the preceding segments, but failed to improve on his second run in the final installment, although he did beat team mate Valtteri Bottas.
"I think qualifying was going well, but for sure we expected to finish higher up," said the Brazilian.
"I had the pace in Q2 and it was a big fight for a couple of tenths. Unfortunately, we are three places back on where it was possible to be.
Force India still appears to have the upper hand over Williams as the two teams battle for fourth in the Constructors' championship.
"It's not great to see us behind the two cars that we're fighting for the championship, but that's the way it goes. Its' very close.
"Anyway, the race is tomorrow and I really hope the strategy, the pace, the weather and everything can be in our favour and can help our race. We will try everything we can."
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