Hungarian GP: Jordan race notes

Jordan Ford experienced two engine failures in today's Hungarian Grand Prix with Giancarlo Fisichella and Zsolt Baumgartner retiring on laps 29 and 35 respectively. The failures happened without warning and will be assessed in detail by Cosworth at the factory. Ralph Firman sat out of the race after experiencing a heavy accident in yesterday's free practice but the British driver was present at the Hungaroring to watch the race with the team. He was released from hospital this morning following tests which diagnosed a bruised heel and slight concussion but no serious injury.

Giancarlo Fisichella:

"The engine blew up for the third time this weekend. I had a good start but the car was quite difficult, there was a lot of oversteer and it was quite easy to make mistakes."

Zsolt Baumgartner:

"Today was a great opportunity for me and I'm very upset that I couldn't finish the race. I think I made a good start and was in 15th when I had to retire. But that's just motorsport: technical defects can happen and unfortunately they happened to Giancarlo and me today. It was a great feeling to drive here in front of the fans and see them so happy. It's a shame but I enjoyed the race while it lasted and I hope I can be in Formula One in the future."

Gary Anderson, Director of race and test engineering:

"Just when you think things can't get much worse they often do. The package is chassis, engine and tyres: the first Bridgestone runner came home 8th after being lapped, neither of our engines lasted and our car is not quick enough, so altogether it's pretty frustrating. Zsolt took the pressure and got on with the job as best as he could. His objective was to keep it neat and tidy, not make any mistakes and get it to the flag. It was our package that let the drivers down."

Ralph Firman:

"The result is a shame for the team and obviously I was disappointed and frustrated about not to be able to take part myself. I feel fine although a little bit sore in the neck and my left heel but I'm confident that I'll be okay to participate in the Monza test in a couple of weeks. I can't wait to get back in the car and put some more miles in."

Jordan Ford will test at Monza on 3 and 4 September with Giancarlo Fisichella driving on both days alongside Ralph Firman and Björn Wirdheim who will share the other car.

GIANCARLO FISICHELLA
DNF (lap 29)
CHASSIS NUMBE: EJ13-05

ZSOLT BAUMGARTNER
DNF (lap 35)
CHASSIS NUMBER: EJ13-04

-jordan-