27/11/2011
NEWS STORY
Marussia Virgin Racing's Jerome D'Ambrosio finished in 19th position in today's final race of the 2011 Formula One season at the Interlagos Circuit in São Paulo. Unfortunately Timo had to retire after a problem with the left rear wheel during his first pit-stop on lap 22.
Clouds were threatening before the start of the race, but the showers kept away from the track, allowing Jerome and Timo to start the race on the Pirelli P-Zero Soft tyres. They both got off to a good start, running 21st and 23rd respectively.
Jerome pitted for the first time on lap 20. Timo followed him in one lap later, but his left rear tyre wasn't properly fitted and he was forced to retire.
Jerome's second pit-stop was on lap 41. He drove a strong race to maintain and increase the gap to the HRTs until the end of the race.
Jerome D'Ambrosio: "I think today was a great race and a great way to finish the season for me. We did a good job in qualifying yesterday and today was one of my best races so far. I'm happy this has happened here in Brazil, as I love this track. I'm also glad to finish ahead of HRT - definitely a very positive way to end the season. I want to thank the team for all their hard work. I have really enjoyed working together with them this year."
Timo Glock: "A very disappointing way to end the season. It's a real shame to have had to retire after losing the left-rear tyre after my first pit-stop but unfortunately these things happen. So it wasn't the way I would have liked to end the season but, anyway, I want to thank the team for all the effort they have put in during the whole year. It has been great to work together."
John Booth, Team Principal: "Both drivers had excellent starts and were it not for Timo being over to the left into Turn 1 I'm sure they would both have emerged n front of the HRTs. Jerome drove another strong race and really proved that yesterday's qualifying positions were an anomaly for us this season.
"We apologise to Timo for the incident in his pit-stop which cost him the chance to end his season on the high note that would have been reflective of his commitment all year.
"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our team on their hard work and dedication right through to the end of what has been a long and challenging season. We may have suffered one final disappointment here today, but ultimately we have achieved a great deal in terms of laying important foundations for a more successful future.
"I would also like to thank our Partners for their unfailing support and we look forward to rewarding their faith in the steps we are taking to ensure we can all look forward to some very positive times ahead. Our thanks also to Cosworth and Pirelli for the positive working relationship we have shared this season."
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