Motorsport: Kiwi Coulthard optimistic ahead of qualifying

Fabian Coulthard of DJR Team Penske during the ITM Auckland SuperSprint. Photo / Supplied

Kiwi driver Fabian Coulthard is optimistic about his chances at the ITM Auckland SuperSprint after an impressive practice day Friday.

The DJR Team Penske Ford driver posted the second fastest time at Pukekohe Park Raceway in yesterday's final practice session and is happy with the speed of his car ahead of qualifying and the first two races of the weekend today.

"It was a pretty good day," Coulthard said. "The MAN Ford was pretty close from the time we rolled it out this morning.

"We were able to fine tune it from then which is the most ideal way to tackle practice day, and hopefully we can carry the speed from practice three into [Saturday]."

Two 10-minute high-intensity qualifying sessions will determine grid position for Saturday's two afternoon races. Given the lack of passing opportunities and the fact these races are 35-lap sprint races with no scheduled pit stops, qualifying will have a major say in finishing order.

"Qualifying will be critical with this four-race format," Coulthard said.

"I've always said that qualifying is the easiest place to pass cars and you normally stay fairly close to the front if you can start there."

The first qualifying session begins at 11.40am this morning.