Hispania hails step forward after finish

Indian Karun Chandhok made it to the end of the Melbourne race, albeit four laps down, in 14th position.

Kolles believes the result is a boost to his team, which he reckons will kick off its season properly next weekend in Malaysia.

"This result, having Karun ending up the race in 14th position is a great step forward," said Kolles. "We reached the goal with one of the two cars in the finish. I'm sorry for Bruno because he did a good job all weekend.

"Karun drove the team's first full race and finished in 14th position the first race for the team, what was really fantastic, especially with these difficult conditions.

"The team did a great job and brought two very competitive cars on the grid. Now we will keep on pushing and just focus on our preparation for Malaysia, where our season will really begin."

The Indian driver admitted he was very proud of the result.

"To finish was very difficult today, and all the more satisfying because of that," he said. "I dedicate this race result to all the mechanics and engineers who worked so hard since Bahrain, without any pre-season testing. This is a fantastic day for the team and a great step forward.

"I am proud to have ended our first race. We achieved the best result we could do today. We have to keep pushing and working and we will manage to finish even higher."

Team-mate Bruno Senna retired from the race early on after yet another hydraulic failure.