Fisichella Hampered by 'Scary' Engine Failure

Italian Giancarlo Fisichella endured what he claimed was a very scary moment when the Honda engine powering his Jordan let go in spectacular fashion at today's Belgian Grand Prix.

Several drivers suffered dramatic engine failures on the longest and one of the fastest circuits on the calendar, none more explosive than Fisichella's. The Italian's Jordan lit up like a rocket after 39 of the 44 laps, a sheet of flame bursting out of the rear of the car as Fisichella pulled over and made a hasty exit.

Fisichella's engine failure was the fourth for Japanese manufacturer Honda during the weekend.

"I was having a good race and unfortunately we lost it when the engine blew up, which was very scary," admitted the Italian. "Considering my grid position, the one-stop strategy was looking good, which is frustrating. I'm already looking to the next race."

Teammate Takuma Sato went on to finish in 11th place, the Japanese driver unhappy with the handling of his car.

"It has been a tough weekend for us," said Sato. "I had quite a difficult start, I don't know why yet because I haven't seen any data, but the car was quite nervous everywhere, oversteering and hopping around a lot and costing me quite a few seconds.

"At the first pit stop, the tyre change took a really long time, which was a shame, although the second and third stints were better. Spa is great fun to drive so it's a shame we didn't have better results, but this is motor racing and you have to fight back."