The Frenchman emerged on top after a highly competitive session that saw the top three covered by just 0.063s. Jaguar star Mark Webber was second quickest, with Kimi Raikkonen third for McLaren.

Jarno Trulli, who set the fastest time in this morning's private test session, was fourth fastest for Renault, immediately ahead of his Spanish team-mate Fernando Alonso. Antonio Pizzonia was sixth for Jaguar, with David Coulthard seventh.

Cristiano da Matta couldn't match the pace of his team-mate, although the Toyota star would normally be satisfied with ninth fastest. The Brazilian had an off-track excursion during the session, spinning off at the Mercedes arena, although he was able to continue without damage.

Both Williams and Ferrari struggled during the session. At their home circuit, Ralf and Michael Schumacher could only manage the eighth and 10th fastest times respectively. Juan Pablo Montoya was 11th quickest ahead of Rubens Barrichello, who lost time during the session when he dislodged his front wing running over the chicane.

Nick Heidfeld, who set the 16th fastest time, was another driver who lost his front wing over the steep kerbs of the chicane. However, the Sauber's wing fell completely off the car in the middle of the track, causing the session to be red-flagged while it was collected.

Jenson Button was 15th fastest, although he was yet again quicker than team-mate Jacques Villeneuve. Ralph Firman couldn't match his impressive time from the private test session and finished 18th, whilst Minardi rookie Justin Wilson brought up the tail of the field.