Romain Grosjean: Monza race ban has given me fresh perspective

Romain Grosjean says being banned from racing in the recent Italian Grand Prix has helped him see how strongly he is supported by his Lotus team

The Frenchman was forced to miss the race at Monza after causing an accident at the start of the Belgian Grand Prix.

He was given a one-race ban and replaced in Italy by Jerome D'Ambrosio.

"I think for me, the main thing about Monza was being in the garage and feeling the support I had from the team," said Grosjean.

"It was really nice and I think that's something a driver needs. We're a family here and it meant a lot to me.

"Apart from that, being on the pitwall with the engineers and looking at the data is always useful. You get another perspective on how the cars are performing, where the differences are, what can be improved and so on.

"Apart from actually being in the car, I think the weekend in Monza was the best preparation I could have for Singapore."

Grosjean said that despite his up-and-down season he is not yet in a position to 'just' play a supporting role to team-mate Kimi Raikkonen, even though the Finn is still in the fight for the championship.

Grosjean has scored 76 points to Raikkonen's 141.

"I wouldn't say that for the rest of the season I'm here just to play a supporting role; if I have the opportunity to reach the podium, or even a win, then I will take it.

"Of course, I want the team to achieve the best results it can and if you look at the points difference between me and Kimi it would be foolish to think only of my own results. Let's hope we can have a fantastic end to the season for me, Kimi and the team."