Sauber Happy to Hold On to Fourth Place

Sauber's team boss Peter Sauber was delighted after his outfit were able to hold on to fourth place in the Constructors' Championship in what turned out to be the most successful season for the Swiss team.

Sauber, who made their Grand Prix debut in 1993, scored 22 points thanks to his drivers Nick Heidfeld and Kimi Raikkonen, and were able to finish the season in front of both the Honda-powered teams BAR and Jordan.

"Our fourth place in the World Championship for Constructors is a tribute to the whole team and the consistency of its commitment all season, and to all of our partners," said Sauber.

"I thank everyone for their effort, and look forward to building on this wonderful success when our cars wear single numbers in 2002."

Sauber, however, were unable to score any points at Suzuka on Sunday. Finn Raikkonen was unhurt after a heavy accident on lap six. The 21-year old, competing in his final Grand Prix with the Sauber team before moving to McLaren to replace compatriot Mika Hakkinen, lost control of his car and was hit by Jordan's Jean Alesi before crashing into the tyre barriers.

"I'm not sure what happened on the sixth lap," admitted Raikkonen. "The lap before my car had begun to understeer in the fast left-handers behind the pits, but that lap the back end suddenly snapped round and I spun. The next thing I knew Alesi hit me and there was debris everywhere.

"It was a pretty big shunt and I have a bit of a head and neck ache. But otherwise I'm fine. After this last race for the team, I would like to say thank you to Peter Sauber for giving me my chance to race in F1, and wish him success again in 2002."

Teammate Heidfeld finished the race in ninth place.