Barrichello determined to challenge his bad luck

Brazilian veteran Rubens Barrichello continued to shrug off all his bad luck on Saturday when he failed to clock a lap in qualifying for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, but said he intended to race on past his 40th birthday next year.

The 39-year-old Brazilian was unable to join the action in his Williams and qualified at the back of the grid with his team-mate Venezuelan Pastor Maldonado.

But he made clear he intends to fight to retain his seat next year as Williams consider replacing him with a different driver, former champion Finn Kimi Raikkonen having been in talks with the team.

"We had a brand new engine this morning and it was looking good," said Barrichello.

"We went out and had difficulties after two laps. We tried to review the situation but before qualifying the team told me there was no way we could go out.

"It's been a hard weekend and I can't remember doing so few laps over a weekend. I will just try to enjoy myself as much as I can on Sunday but it has been a disappointing day.

"Yes, this has been my toughest season most definitely. Last year it started tough but we solved the problems.

"This year, with people coming in and out of the team, it's been tough. I'm going to 40 years of age with 20 years of racing next season so it's almost a must for me to be there next year.

"I only do this because I enjoy (it) fully. I'm doing everything I can to be on the grid.

"I'm even looking at other things such as getting sponsors if that's what we need. I just want to show that my passion is behind the steering wheel."