For the first time this season, we did not have the full complement of 22 cars taking part in the opening day of free practice. Heinz-Harald Frentzen and Enrique Bernoldi were left to twiddle their thumbs in the Arrows garage for the two hour session. Legal wrangles and High Court proceedings yesterday mean the team’s future is unclear at best and uncertain at worst.

In practical terms the cars could not run, because engine supplier Cosworth has refused to hand over the V10’s electronic control units because the team has an outstanding bill reckoned to be 3.4 million in Sterling.

At the time of writing, there is no word as to whether or not the cars will be able to run tomorrow. However, having been through the pre-event scrutineering rules, Arrows has not infringed any sporting regulations by not taking part in today’s session.

The other absentee was Mika Salo.

Watching the DHL Jordan Honda team’s encouraging Friday performance was long-time fan of the team, Ryan Giggs. The Manchester United player followed proceedings from the team garage.