Heidfeld Delighted with 'Fantastic' Result

Germany's Heidfeld finished as runner-up for Williams, blasting past Fernando Alonso six laps from the finish as they exited the tunnel.

It was Heidfeld's best result in Formula One.

"It feels fantastic, it is the best result I have ever had in Formula One and it makes it even more special that it is here in Monaco," said Heidfeld. "It is one of my favourite circuits, one of the most difficult circuits in the world, so it is very nice."

Heidfeld ran behind teammate Mark Webber for most of the race, but an early second pitstop allowed the German to jump ahead of the Australian.

"I think I was just lucky then," said Heidfeld. "I mean, we decided to take me in a bit earlier, we were running into traffic and Alonso had big problems with his tyres and I had the advantage then."

Webber, meanwhile, was third for his first podium finish.

The Williams driver, however, was unhappy with his start, having lost several places after an impressive qualifying performance which saw him taking third spot.

"The start was a joke, it was very frustrating that I didn't get away at all, the clutch didn't really work at all, so that was a shame," said Webber.

"Then I spent the first lap behind Jarno [Trulli], but like everyone else the safety car was out and the guys said pit, and I was on the start-finish straight, so I had to do another lap.

"It was not easy to overtake, the tunnel today was very tricky and everyone was struggling for grip in the tunnel. But anyway, could have been better for me but great for the team."