Malaysian GP: Toyota race notes

Malaysian Grand Prix - Race Sunday 17 March 2002

Both Allan McNish and Mika Salo made it to the finish line of the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang today. McNish, who started in 19th position, ended an eventful race in a superb 7th, but Salo finished three laps down in 12th place after an electronics problem affected his day.

Allan McNish

"Obviously I am pretty happy considering where we started on the grid. The car felt more comfortable to drive - a lot more than it was in qualifying and on Friday. Today I was able to race with cars that I didn't think I'd be racing with at this stage. We can now look ahead to Brazil with a lot more confidence."

Mika Salo

"It was a reasonable day. The early laps were very good and I was keeping up easily with the guys in front of me and making some passes. I had an electronic problem with the traction control after the first pit stop, which ruined my race really. But it is encouraging to see our two cars finish and good for the team."

Ove Andersson, President

"It is only our second race and we got both cars past the finish line. Okay we had some problems - an electrics problem on Mika's car and a bit of confusion during Allan's final pit stop, but that is all part of the learning process. We were actually competitive in the race and in a points scoring position before those problems so it is a very good result for the whole team."

Review Mika Salo ended free practice in 5th position on Friday with Allan McNish in 11th. McNish experienced transmission problems in qualifying and only managed 19th spot, whilst Mika Salo found a good car set-up and put his TF102 in 10th place.

Weather: Dry race. Average Temperatures: Air 330C, Track 400C, Humidity 52%

T-car : Chassis TF102/02 set up for Mika Salo
Allan McNish, Car No 25
Position: 7th, 1:35.38.086, 55 laps
Chassis: TF102/05

Mika Salo, Car No 24
Position: 12th, 1:35.39.091, 53 laps
Chassis: TF102/04

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