Kovalainen philosophical after unlucky day

The Finn, starting from second place in his return to action following his heavy crash in Spain, lost all chances of a good finish after making contact with Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen at the start.

The incident damaged Raikkonen's front wing, which punctured one of Kovalainen's tyres, forcing him to pit.

The McLaren driver dropped to the bottom of the field and, despite several passes on track, he had to settle for 12th position.

"Not a lucky race for me as I made a bad start from the dirty line on the grid," said the Finn. "After the start Kimi and I touched slightly which caused a slow puncture to my left-rear tyre.

"Initially I was not sure whether the tyre was damaged or not, but during the Safety Car period I realised that I had to come into the pits for a new tyre.

"That was almost it for me, because with my heavy fuel load and the traffic it is extremely difficult to gain any places during the race. However, I did my best but no points.

"These things happen, and I have had a good weekend and really enjoyed being back in the car. It's a shame that we were not able to get points today as I have been fast throughout, but I am really optimistic for Monaco."