2003 Italian GP

Arguably one of the most atmospheric venues in the F1 calendar, Monza is the closest you can get to an oval circuit. It has fast sweeping corners followed by long fast straights. The speed of the track means low downforce settings, which can make it tricky for drivers in the chicanes. Some fairly substantial bumps also make it necessary for the cars to have stiff settings. The unwavering passion of Ferrari's "tifosi" makes for a stirring atmosphere for anyone with an interest in motor racing. The circuit itself is quite difficult as the driver has less influence than at other tracks, as the race is largely about engine power and brakes. Often there are significant gaps between teams but the gap between drivers is small. The 360kph top speed is a thrill for drivers and the Italian Grand Prix is never a dull race.

Gary Anderson, Director of Race and Test Engineering said,
"We had a test at Monza last week and have done a bit of ground work so we are step ahead for the race weekend which is good. We still have a bit of work to do to get the aero package suited to the high speed track and get it working more efficiently. Because of the engine problems we had in Hungary, we have replaced one component of the latest upgrade with the previous specification, for the sake of reliability. Generally the tyres were reasonable at the test and we are quite happy with our choice, it seems to be quite a consistent race tyre. "

"Having consulted with Professor Watkins on arrival at the circuit today it’s clear that due to the residual effects of my serious accident at the Hungarian Grand Prix three weeks ago I will not compete this weekend in Monza. I have an inner ear imbalance which the Professor said should be fine in time for testing in Silverstone and the last two races."

Ralph Firman had a consultation with FIA Medical Delegate Professor Sid Watkins upon arrival at the circuit yesterday afternoon and it was decided that he should not participate in the Italian Grand Prix this weekend due to the residual effects of his accident at the Hungarian Grand Prix three weeks ago.

Jordan Ford has been given permission by the stewards of the meeting to replace Firman with Zsolt Baumgartner, who will drive car 12 for this round of the Formula One World Championship.

GIANCARLO FISICHELLA 16th 1:24.179
CHASSIS NUMBER EJ13-02 (race car EJ13-05)
"It’s frustrating and I’m disappointed to be three and a half seconds off the pace at my home Grand Prix. I used the spare car today because I felt there was some problem with my race car, maybe we’ll fix it for tomorrow."

ZSOLT BAUMGARTNER 17th 1:24.872
CHASSIS NUMBER EJ13-04
"I was quite happy with today and I’m pleased that I was able to do the same lap time in dirtier track conditions than this morning. I hope tomorrow I can do the same thing again or a bit quicker with a time closer to Giancarlo. That’s the goal."

It would seem that all is not quite as expected in the BMW WilliamsF1 Team camp this morning in Monza. Following on from his crash during testing last week at the 5.7km Autodromo, Ralf Schumacher is still not feeling 100 per cent.

Subsequently the FIA have issued the following statement: “Having received a request from the BMW WilliamsF1 Team to substitute driver Marc Gené for driver of car number four (Ralf Schumacher) under Article 60 of the 2003FIA Formula One Sporting Regulations, the Stewards of the meeting accede to the request and permit the substitution of Marc Gené for Ralf Schumacher.”

A mechanically trouble-free day for Jordan Ford allowed Giancarlo Fisichella and Zsolt Baumgartner to complete their free practice set-up and tyre programmes and subsequently they qualified in 13th and 18th positions for tomorrow’s Italian Grand Prix.

A reliable car package and steady performances from Giancarlo Fisichella and Zsolt Baumgartner offered Jordan Ford 10th and 11th positions in today’s race.

A small problem with Fisichella’s car on the formation lap did not hinder the Italian’s chances in his home Grand Prix as the team exploited the ensuing early stop to change his race strategy and he was able to climb from the back of the grid to finish in the top ten.

Yesterday’s Italian Grand Prix broke the existing record for the fastest race ever, all over in just under one hour and fifteen minutes at an average speed for the winner of 247.585 km/h. It beats the previous record, also established at Monza, over 30 years ago, when Peter Gethin won at an average of 242.615 km/h.