De la Rosa Encouraged after Career Best Result

Pedro de la Rosa was confident his Jaguar team will be able to continue with their good form following a good performance at the Italian Grand Prix, where the Spanish driver scored his best ever result in Formula One.

De la Rosa, who on Saturday outqualified teammate Eddie Irvine for the fifth consecutive time this season, completed a brilliant race to finish in fifth place.

The Jaguar driver admitted the result was a morale boost for the team, and hoped they will be able to continue to shine in the two remaining races of the year.

"That's the boost we've been waiting for," said a happy de la Rosa. "The past few races haven't been very good and I am just delighted for everybody in the team. Everything went like clockwork today. The Jaguar R2 felt very well balanced throughout and I didn't suffer from any problems.

"My worry beforehand was the first chicane and I'm just glad I made it through there without incident. Jenson Button made a great start but came flying into the chicane and took a few people out. We'll aim to carry this momentum into the next two races and let's see where it gets us."

Teammate Irvine was unable to finish the race, retiring on lap 14 with mechanical problems.