19/05/2005
NEWS STORY
Jordan Grand Prix today launched into its preparations for Formula One's most glamorous event of the season – the 2005 Monaco Grand Prix. Tiago Monteiro and Robert Doornbos had two smooth-running Free Practice sessions with no mechanical problems or damage to the cars. Narain Karthikeyan, however, lost most of the afternoon due to a small contact with the barrier at the end of the morning, which slightly damaged his rear suspension. The drivers' programme for the opening day was: familiarising with the track, working on the car set-up and testing different types of Bridgestone tyres to deal with this uniquely demanding street circuit.
Narain Karthikeyan: As a result from a small contact with the barrier this morning, my running time was a bit restricted this afternoon, however I have still managed to complete 12 laps. Today was my first time on the Monaco circuit so I have spent most of the allocated time familiarising myself with the layout. It is quite a difficult track to learn, so I will need more laps on Saturday and do some catch-up.
Tiago Monteiro: First day in Monaco can always be a surprise. It was much different from the last time I was here. In the Free Practice session, you have to take it easy, step by step and try not to make any mistake. You have to find exactly where to brake as otherwise you can lose a lot of time. It is also important to gain confidence on this track, as it can be tricky. Qualifying on Saturday and Sunday will be crucial because it is very difficult to overtake here, therefore I will take some risks.
Robert Doornbos: It was a great day driving between the barriers in Monaco. The track was quite dirty this morning so we made sure we did not push too much in order not to make any mistake. I have been the fastest toady so I am quite pleased with my job. We have also done a lot of work with Bridgestone so now I can supply them with my data.
Trevor Carlin: It was a very steep learning curve for the drivers today. Narain had a small touch with the barrier this morning, which limited his laps this afternoon. Robert has done a good job helping us with our tyre evaluation and Tiago pushed hard, while learning the circuit and going faster and faster lap after lap. Now we will have to improve again on Saturday.