Michelin fingers circuit debris

A first corner collision between four cars was the catalyst for the high level of carbonfibre shards that accumulated on the track. Despite a Safety Car period to clear up the mess, Alonso suffered a right-rear puncture at Turn 1 on lap 9, followed by a left-rear blow-out for Schumacher at Turn 13 soon after.

"Alonso and Schumacher suffered deflated right and left rear tyres respectively," confirmed Dupasquier. "We have examined the tyres and it is clear that both were damaged by debris that had been picked up from the track, probably in the wake of the multiple pile-up at the first corner.

Dupasquier was dismayed to lose two of his best shots of winning, especially as tyre rival Bridgestone suffered some blistering during the weekend.

"This was a race any one of several Michelin drivers could definitely have won, but the two safety car periods and other circumstances contrived to thwart us," he added. "It's a shame, because our tyres have performed extremely well all weekend. They have been fast and consistent in equal measure, and we have had absolutely no blistering problems despite the fierce heat."