Grapevine: Minardi's Dutch Run a Success

The event saw Minardi's Dutch double of Christijan Albers and Robert Doornbos run their Minardi car through the 3.4km temporary street circuit, as part of a series of demo runs by a variety of competition cars, which included an F3000, Le Man and historic Grand Prix cars.

"Wow, what a great event and what an amazing crowd!" commented Albers, who threw his helmet to the cheering crowd when he stepped out of his car.

"It's terrific to be able to bring Formula One to the centre of a city like Rotterdam, so people can see and hear close up what the sport is all about. It's also an appropriate way to thank all my Dutch sponsors for the support they have provided, because without them, I simply wouldn't be where I am now. It has been a wonderful day."

Rotterdam-born Doornbos was equally ecstatic, stating: "I have to say, even since this morning, this had the feeling of a special event, and it was terrific to be able to demonstrate the Minardi Formula One car in front of so many fans.

"My compliments to them - they were just so enthusiastic, yelling and cheering, just like in a football stadium. I really enjoyed being able to put on a show for them."

Minardi team principal Paul Stoddart summed up the event as successful, the Australian saying: "It's been an absolutely great programme, and once again demonstrates the value of events that bring motor racing in general, and Formula One in particular, closer to the fans."