Spanish GP: Jordan race notes

There was mixed fortune for Jordan Grand Prix drivers in the second qualifying this morning. Tiago Monteiro experienced an engine failure, after qualifying in 14th position, and therefore had to start the race from the back of the grid.

Narain Karthikeyan had a clean lap and qualified 13th. As for the race, both drivers were satisfied to finish today's 66-lap Spanish Grand Prix in 12th and 13th positions, giving them more valuable race experience and mileage.

The drivers are encouraged by the recent improvements made to the car and are going now to prepare, physically but also more particularly mentally, for the special challenge that Monaco will present in two weeks time.

Tiago Monteiro: 12th

"Today was my best Grand Prix so far this season. I had no problem and I was able to push harder and harder throughout the race. The tyres worked very well. Bridgestone have made a big improvement and we have also made some progress on the balance of the car."

"I had an engine problem this morning and I had to start from the back of the grid but in the end I have finished 12t h. I have really enjoyed this race and I would like to thank the team for the great job they did this morning, changing the engine so quickly."

Narain Karthikeyan: 13th

"I have made a reasonable start and the first few laps were ok. I was pushing hard as Tiago Monteiro was catching. Then I made a mistake in running a bit too wide in a chicane, went in the dirt and Tiago overtook me. I am glad we both finished the race and that the team has been able to gather some useful data."

Trevor Carlin, Sporting director:

"It was really a tough race for both our drivers. We are glad to have finished again, as we were quite a long way off the pace. We were a bit disappointed about that but we knew from the start that this was going to be one of the hardest circuits for us. Now we have to look forward to the next race in Monaco."

-jordan-