Monaco GP: Jordan Thursday qualifying notes

Giancarlo Fisichella and Ralph Firman came 7th and 13th in first qualifying after a trouble- free day for Jordan Ford. Firman's time was quickest of the four rookies and his best qualifying position in the season so far. Fisichella was comfortably in the top ten and the team is confident that there is more to come from the EJ13 during the weekend.

Giancarlo Fisichella:

"The car's balance is not too bad here. I'm pleased with a top ten time, although I'm sure there was a possibility even to get on the second row today. My lap was clean but not fantastic, so I'm looking forward to final qualifying and the race."

Ralph Firman:

"I'm happy with that. It's my first time here and I love the circuit. I feel really at home and can't wait to get out again on Saturday. I was cautious on the first two sectors because of the oil on the circuit when the session re-started, but I've got a pretty good pace, especially on the last sector. I think this could be my best chance yet of scoring points."

Gary Anderson, Director of race and test engineering:

"We did a bit of work for this Grand Prix and the car seems to be a bit better in relative terms - I actually expected slightly better in qualifying. Giancarlo made a couple of mistakes on the lap, and here especially, you pay a price for it. I'm happy enough though as seventh is pretty reasonable. Ralph is the fastest newcomer so that's a great initiation for him. He hasn't really put a wheel wrong, there have been a couple of little brushes with the armco but no damage at all. That's pretty commendable, a good effort."

GIANCARLO FISICHELLA
Best lap: 1:17.080, 7th
CHASSIS NUMBER: EJ13-04

RALPH FIRMAN
Best lap: 1:18.286, 13th
CHASSIS NUMBER: EJ13-03
SPARE: EJ13-02

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