Jarno Trulli, who will start from the front row, was fifth fastest in the warm-up. Heinz-Harald Frentzen (due to start from the second row) was 11th quickest.

'Everything was okay,' said Frentzen. 'There is nothing much to report. The car feels fine.'

Trulli completed 17 laps and reported that his car felt very good in race trim. 'I'm very happy,' he said. 'There were no major problems and I'm looking forward to the race. It is going to be long and tough. But we're ready.'

A fast lap from Rubens Barrichello at the end of the half-hour session gave the Ferrari driver the quickest time ahead of his team-mate, Michael Schumacher. David Coulthard had an engine problem and was forced to switch to his spare car while an engine change began in time for the race.

Several drivers had to use the escape road while braking for the harbour chicane. Johnny Herbert spun his Jaguar and brushed the barrier at the Swimming Pool chicane. The most serious incident occurred in the closing minute when Pedro de la Rosa lost control of his Arrows at Tabac corner and slammed into the barrier. The Spaniard was unhurt but his car was badly damaged along the right-hand side.

Jordan Grand Prix