Frentzen surprised with fourth

While his team-mate Damon Hill was down in the dumps after ending up 11th the German slotted his car into fourth place behind Eddie Irvine with both Stewart drivers hard on his heels.

'After a difficult morning trying to find the right set-up I had not expected to finish so high up," said the German, fourth in the drivers' championship just 14 points behind Hakkinen after winning the French Grand Prix.

'We made the right modifications in time for qualifying. This is the best result we have had all season and I am very pleased with the job we did.

'You really have to be very accurate with the changes you are making to the car on this circuit.

'I have a lot of confidence in the car and will be running some modifications for the first time in a race so I am looking forward to a good day.'