San Marino GP Arrows race notes

The OrangeArrows team scored a mixed bag of results at Imola today. Enrique Bernoldi took his first Formula One chequered flag after a solid race but team-mate Jos Verstappen stopped on lap seven after an exhaust problem caused various systems to overheat and force him into retirement. Although disappointed that Jos was unable to finish the Grand Prix, the team was pleased to see Enrique complete full distance and finish in the top ten.

The team will now move on to Vairano for a private test in preparation for the next race in Barcelona.

Enrique Bernoldi
"Well I'm pretty happy that I've finished my first race. Everything went well, no problems with the car, the pit-stops or the start. My start was okay but I was pushed out by Burti on the first lap which made me lose position but that's all part of racing. I enjoyed the race and still had energy in reserve at the end. I learnt a lot out there today so overall it is a a positive result for myself and the team."

Jos Verstappen
"I had a failure with my exhaust and once that happens all the underbody temperatures start going up, the hydraulics, the electrics and everything else heats up until the car stops. The car was running really well until then, the best it has been so far this weekend. I think this is a weekend I will quickly forget. I've had a lot of small problems and also some bad luck so I'll just draw a line under this and look forward to the Barcelona race in two weeks time."

Mike Coughlan, Technical Director, OrangeArrows
"Enrique did a great job today and it was good to see him get his first finish, especially in the top ten. Jos suffered an exhaust pipe failure so couldn't continue which is unfortunate as he was going well. We're off to Vairano at the end of next week for a private test and are looking forward to some new challenges in Barcelona."

Lionel de Castro, Asiatech
"The improving reliability of the Asiatech engine helped Enrique to a fine tenth place here today. It shows that all the team's hard work is now paying off. With numerous modifications to come, we are all looking forward to the coming races."

- Arrows F1