The DAMS team, the reigning GP2 Drivers Champion with Romain Grosjean, has taken up where they left off last year. Davide Valsecchi bagged pole position for the first heat on the Sepang circuit, and Felipe Nasr added to the French team's joy with a stunning tenth place (will start 9th, following a penalty) in his first qualifying session in GP2.

After encouraging winter testing, the team has confirmed its status as a title contender again this year with two drivers who combine experience and panache. It augurs well for the first two races on Saturday and Sunday.

Jean-Paul Driot, CEO: "Obviously we all feel very satisfied not only because of the pole position, but also because of the overall result of our two drivers. I'd like to congratulate them and the whole team who have laid down a marker right at the start of the season."

Davide Valsecchi: "First of all, I'd like to thank my engineers and mechanics who have given me such a well-prepared car. I'm very happy for them - and also for myself - but the job isn't done yet as we'll have to confirm our performance in the race. In any case, we've got off to a great start."

Felipe Nasr: "My tenth place isn't too bad but I'd have liked to do a bit better. This being said it's my first race in GP2 and I'd like to thank my team for all the help they've given me. I'll do my best to give them a good result this weekend."