Monaco GP Stewart Race Notes

Monaco, Sunday 16th May, 1999

STEWART-FORD NOTES & QUOTES Monaco Grand Prix: Race (78 laps)

Rubens Barrichello was running fifth when with only five laps to go he had a suspension problem and crashed rounding the Swimming Pool turn. Johnny Herbert retired after 32 laps when his suspension broke causing an accident on the exit to Casino Square. He was running in 11th place.

RUBENS BARRICHELLO Car No.16 (SF3-04) DNF Suspension 'It's a pity my race ended like it did because Monaco is notoriously difficult for overtaking and I'm sure I would have been able to hold my fifth position until the finish. The car ran reasonably well though I wasn't able to find consistency after my pit stop. I got so close, just five laps from the end, which was a shame.'

JOHNNY HERBERT Car No.17 (SF3-05) DNF Suspension 'It would have been nice to finish my first race of the season but unfortunately it wasn't to be. I made a pretty good start, got by Mika Salo and with a bit more drag could have gained two places. As for the accident there was no warning at all. I was coming out of Casino Square and something gave up on the right rear suspension. I just need to get some more mileage under my belt in the test next week and hope for a better race in Barcelona.'

PAUL STEWART, SGP Deputy Chairman 'It's disappointing to be denied another two championship points. The car and engine ran reliably all weekend until the suspension problems in the race. In the past Monaco has been good to us but it wasn't to be this time. Both drivers drove solid races and the pit stops went well so to leave empty handed is a bit tough on the whole Stewart-Ford team.'

NEIL RESSLER, Vice-President, Research & Vehicle Technology, Ford 'It was a shame that we didn't finish today but heartening that the Ford Cosworth CR-1 engine performed faultlessly throughout the weekend.'