Disappointed da Matta Hoping for Better Days

Brazilian Cristiano da Matta was disappointed after failing to finish in the points at his first ever Brazilian Formula One Grand Prix.

"Not the result I wanted today in front of my fans, but we are now heading into the European season, where I hope we can get good results," said da Matta.

The current CART champion went on to finish 10th and last of the classified drivers after struggling with oversteer as the track began to dry. Frenchman Olivier Panis completed a poor day for the Toyota team, who like Minardi are the only ones yet to score a point after the first three races of the season.

Panis retired from the race when Briton Ralph Firman crashed into him on lap 17. Firman's Jordan lost a front wheel when running down the straight and, his car out of control, he slammed into the Toyota.

"I felt a big impact from the rear of my car and I didn't really understand what had happened until Ralph Firman spoke with me and explained he had hit me," said Panis. "Obviously I am disappointed with the outcome, but the team has worked really hard all weekend, so I want to thank them and it is important for us not to give up."