The four AutoDelta Alfa Romeo 156 S2000 drivers struggled to match the pace of either the BMW or the SEAT runners around Spa during qualifying this afternoon.

Reigning FIA ETCC Champion Gabriele Tarquini emerged fastest to claim sixth place with James Thompson winding up two places further back and Fabrizio Giovanardi rounding out the top ten.

The fourth AutoDelta entry, driven by Augusto Farfus, will start from almost the rear of the field after he crashed heavily early on in the final session, leaving the Brazilian without a banker lap.

Gabriele TARQUINI - AutoDelta Squadra Corse, 6th

“It is not a consolation to be the fastest of the Alfa Romeo drivers. We were hoping for something better today.

Last years this was a very racetrack for us, but now, the new asphalt is much more aggressive with the tyres, and our car suffers.

It is clear that BMW is a step ahead, and I’m afraid that tomorrow we will have two very tough races.”

Augusto FARFUS - AutoDelta Squadra Corse, 32nd

"I lost the back of my cars downhill. I went off onto the gravel, with no margin of correction. I crashed into the barrier, heavily.

"I'm OK, but I'm sorry because the mechanics will spend the night to rebuild the car."