Lauda Not Surprised by Qualifying Struggle

The Jaguar team are just aiming to make it to the end of Sunday's Monaco Grand Prix after another dismal, but expected, qualifying session.

"We expected a very tough Monaco Grand Prix and qualifying proved no surprise," said team boss Niki Lauda. "Eddie [Irvine] was slightly hindered by having to take the T-car after his accident during the second morning warm-up session.

"Our weekend has been far from easy and getting both cars home is our realistic target for race day."

Pedro de la Rosa and teammate Eddie Irvine continued to struggle on Saturday, with the Spaniard being the quickest of the two, setting the 20th fastest time of the day. After a poor showing, the Catalan driver is only hoping to see the chequered flag tomorrow.

"Not the result that I would have liked, but after my crash on Thursday I am pleased that I had a trouble free session today," de la Rosa said. "My outlook for the race is to enjoy it and to bring the car home in one piece and see what, if anything, we can salvage from this weekend."

A broken stud in the gearbox housing of Irvine's car collapsed during the morning practice session, forcing the Irishman into a spin and crashing into the barriers. Irvine had to use the spare Jaguar for qualifying, and he struggled with it, finishing in 21st position.

"The car was hit hard at the back as a result of the collapsed rear suspension when it ploughed into the armco barriers that resulted in me using the T-Car for the qualifying session," he said.

"Tomorrow will be a difficult day for us and I don't expect anything out of the ordinary. Saying that, Monaco always gives us a good day’s racing and anything can happen at this circuit."