Monaco GP Benetton Thursday notes

Flavio Briatore, Managing Director :
"It looks like it wasn't a good day for us as Giancarlo's engine blew and Alex had an accident, but in the end we are quite happy with the car and both Fisichella and Wurz were pleased with the balance. It looks like a disaster but we believe we are in good shape for Saturday."

Pat Symonds, Technical Director :
"This was a very fraught day, but not untypical of Monaco. Giancarlo had to stop at the beginning of the second session with an engine problem and unfortunately Alex hit the barrier on his first run. Nevertheless up to this point the cars were looking competitive and the drivers were more happy than is normal at Monaco. So although a very difficult day, it's a day that stands us in good stead for the weekend."

Giancarlo Fisichella :
"This morning the track was very splippery but as the grip improved we made some good progress with the set-up and found a good balance on the car. At the beginning of the second session my engine blew so we lost a lot of track time, but still I feel confident that the car is competitive here and am looking forward to qualifying."

Alexander Wurz :
"In the first session we had quite a lot of understeer so we changed a lot during the break. In the second session I got one timed lap in then was going for my flying lap and the chassis was good, but I hit the barrier on the chicane after the tunnel. It is annoying that we lost time in the second session but the car feels good so I am confident for Saturday."