Herbert Still Angry with Jaguar

Johnny Herbert, who retired from Formula One at the end of the 2000 season, has criticised the Jaguar team, saying that the accident he suffered at the last Grand Prix of the year could have cost him the chance to start a new career in the CART series.

Herbert's car suffered a suspension failure at the Malaysian Grand Prix, crashing at more than 250km/h, and had to be assisted by the marshals to get out of the cockpit.

The British driver, who is still looking for a seat in the American CART championship for next season, admitted he was really angry about leaving Formula One that way.

"It was very disappointing to finish flying off the track through no fault of my own but because of a stress failure that should never have happened," Herbert said to the Daily Mail. "If you make mistakes as a driver then you can accept it, but when you get into trouble because someone else has got it wrong, it is very hard to take.

"I didn’t do anything wrong and yet I was the guy who ended up on crutches. I could hardly have gone looking for a job in that condition. It wouldn’t have made much of an impression."

Herbert, winner of three Grand Prix during his racing career, didn't score a point in his final season, but he confessed he is still motivated to take on a new challenge.

"There is still a chance for me and I have not given much thought to any alternative form of racing because I am so eager and excited about competing in the ChampCar championship."

"I have no intention of leaving my ambitions unfulfilled."