Elf Marc VDS' Sam Lowes secured his third front row start of 2022 with the third fastest time in qualifying at Jerez.

Another painfully close shootout saw the leading trio covered by just 0.032s as teammate Tony Arbolino and Ai Ogura bettered the Brit for pole position in the closing stages of Saturday afternoon’s final session.

Lowes had maintained his front running presence across the weekend at the Jerez Circuit - Angel Nieto in preparation for the Spanish GP, bettering his Friday pace with the second fastest time of FP3.

Improving again in qualifying, the 31-year-old was initially frustrated with his 1’41.321, believing there was more to gain had traffic not prevented the progress. But is confident he has what it takes to challenge for the victory come race day.

“Qualifying was good,” Lowes said simply. “I didn’t do the perfect lap time but I feel competitive this weekend.

“I’ve been stronger than before and with both rear tyres I’ve been fast. We just need to have a good sleep tonight and come out fighting tomorrow.

“I think the first laps will be important. It’s also true that four or five guys will have the pace, but after the early laps, it will be a different race. I’m expecting to fight for the podium and the victory. I’ve been fast in every session and have good pace, so this is important.”