Bernoldi briefly humbles Schumacher

Schumacher, who was battling his way through the field after an early pit stop to change his front wing, overtook Bernoldi at Turn 1, only for the Brazilian to repass him three corners later and humble the world champ for a further half a lap.

"I had a great battle with Michael [Schumacher]," said Bernoldi. "He got past me but then I got past him which was fun."

Bernoldi eventually retired with a fuel pick-up problem just before his first planned pit stop.

"Even though I couldn't finish the race today I have to say it's one of the most enjoyable ones I've had so far," he added. "My start wasn't the best but I managed to pass a few cars on the first lap so I was pleased with my position. I was due for my first stop on lap 21 but the car stopped when I had just half a lap to go. It's a shame but I now have renewed confidence for my home race in Brazil."

Arrows' second driver, Heinz Harald Frentzen, stalled on the grid due to a launch control problem but managed to complete the distance after a belated start, two laps behind.