Both Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel were confident after Friday's practice running in Singapore, having each led a session and recording some very consistent lap times.
Practice one produced an unfamiliar timesheet on a drying track, with Webber leading Michael Schumacher and Adrian Sutil ahead of his team mate in fourth.
Once the circuit had dried up for the later session, Vettel dominated, consistently setting lap times over a second quicker than anyone else, until Webber clocked a lap within seven-tenths of his title rival to go second.
“A pretty good first day, the first session was wet, but we got some good running this afternoon,” said Webber.
“I haven't seen the times that closely yet, but I'm pretty happy with how today went.”
Vettel was equally happy.
“The most important thing is to have a clean Friday and we had no problem with the car today,” he said.
The German reckons the threat of rain will pose a stronger challenge to drivers and teams this weekend than at any other circuit.
“I think it could be interesting tomorrow or on Sunday if we get some rain.
“It was tricky in the first practice, as the circuit was still a bit damp from earlier rain, then in P2 it didn't really dry up and some corners were like a sponge where you couldn't get rid of the water.
“It's good to be on top and we have good pace. The weather may bring a surprise though.”
Red Bull need a strong result this weekend, after a couple of quiet races as the European stint of the season came to a close.
The team pinpointed Singapore as a track that will suit them, and with a raft of updates including a new front wing, they expect to fight back at rivals Ferrari and McLaren.
But Webber remains cautiously optimistic: “Other people had their ideas how to improve their car and we have continued to improve our car too.
“Ferrari still look quick and anyone can be on pole tomorrow – us, Ferrari or McLaren, we just keep trying to do our best.”
