Firman's position secure at Jordan

Some doubts were caused when a national newspaper reporter was told by Eddie Jordan that the Spanish Grand Prix would be "a test" for Firman. It is understood, however, that Jordan was referring to the Barcelona race being the first track on which Firman had previously tested and thus had prior knowledge, giving him the opportunity to show his true potential.

The Formula Nippon champion, who has suffered two suspension breakages and an engine failure in his first four races with the team, managed to outqualify team mate Giancarlo Fisichella in Spain. The Italian was, however, afflicted by mechanical problems that obliged him to take the spare car, set up for Firman, in qualifying before suffering a lengthy fuel rig delay in the race.

Firman, meanwhile, pitted with the early Safety Car, switched to a two-stop strategy, drove a strong middle stint and scored the final point for eighth place.

Van Diemen boss Ralph Firman Sr told autosport.com: "Ralph should be secure here for the year. It's not the same situation as Antonio [Pizzonia] at Jaguar, who has at least had quite a lot of testing. Ralph had very little seat time before the season and has had to do his learning in public."

Ford of Europe president Martin Leach added: "A great result for Ralph who, through no fault of his own, has had a challenging start to the season."