Australian GP: Jordan Saturday qualifying notes

Jordan Grand Prix set the fastest qualifying lap of the Bridgestone runners with driver Narain Karthikeyan in 9th position after the first ever qualifying session under the new format for 2005. Team mate Tiago Monteiro finished 13th quickest in preparation for tomorrow's final qualifying and Australian Grand Prix race.

Both drivers were reasonably satisfied with their provisional qualifying laps, which followed a case of mixed fortune during Saturday morning's two 45-minute practice sessions when Karthikeyan lost part of the last session after a spin due to wet conditions.

Tiago Monteiro:

"It was quite tricky as you do not know what to expect and you have to push on your first lap out. However, the wet conditions were the same for everyone, but as a rookie it is not the easiest solution. I have made a few mistakes with braking and almost went out twice as I was pushing and trying to do my best."

Narain Karthikeyan:

"Qualifying was a bit tricky for the rookies today as it was so slippery. I am happy with what I have done. Obviously I could have pushed a bit harder but I am learning step by step. "

Trevor Carlin, Sporting director:

"It was quite an interesting session with mixed conditions. We started out in heavy rain which obviously put us behind a little bit as the track dried, but then with the downfall, we had a bit of luck. It is a great start. It is nice to be 9th even though we would be very lucky to finish there tomorrow."

Narain Karthikeyan
Chassis: EJ15/02
9th, 1:44.357

Tiago Monteiro
Chassis: EJ15/03
13th, 1:46.846

-jordan-