Irvine Aiming to Stay Out of Trouble in Canada

Jaguar's Eddie Irvine has predicted that the Canadian Grand Prix may be won in the pitlane and the Ulsterman is aiming to stay out of trouble to get a good result at the Gilles Villeneuve circuit next Sunday.

Irvine, aiming to land his team's first points since the season-opener in Melbourne, expects the proficiency of pit crews to be all-important with overtaking opportunities rare in Montreal.

"There have been four first lap collisions in the last five years and even with a reduced field overtaking remains difficult," Irvine said. "As long as the weather stays dry the race may well be won in the pits."

Irvine admits he is looking to avoid any pile-ups on Ile Notre Dame with many drivers making early exits during the last few years.

"Montreal is one of the more exciting settings for the Grand Prix both on and off the circuit," Irvine said. "The track itself tends to break more cars than any of the other circuits.

"The number of retirements is always high, yet saying that, the team has been working hard on reliability and my aim will be to steer clear of trouble."

Irvine added that he expects to be given a rough ride by the Canadians during the exhibition game of hockey that will take place in St Laurent Street in the city.

"I suspect that the National League players may prove to be tough competition," Irvine said.