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."
REPORT: Hamilton beats Rosberg by 0.4s for Malaysia pole
GALLERY: Magnussen's fire at the Malaysian Grand Prix
Silbermann says ... Bugged by Liberty
Romain Grosjean exclusive column: Haas can build momentum for 2017
Chris Medland's 2016 Malaysian Grand Prix preview
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
Carlos Sainz admits that the Volkswagen group’s success in motorsport – be it with VW,…
Daniel Ricciardo was expecting a ‘clear the air’ talk with Lance Stroll after the latter’s…
Max Verstappen says he respects Adrian Newey’s decision to part ways with Red Bull but…
We’re on the eve of another adrenaline-pumping weekend of action in Florida, with Formula 1's…
Sergio Perez believes Red Bull Racing will be in a great place despite the departure…
Lewis Hamilton has put departing Red Bull designer Adrian Newey at the top of his…