Minardi Deserved More, Says Stoddart

Minardi boss Paul Stoddart believes his team deserved more this season, but their lack of budget hampered their progress.

The Anglo-Italian squad were the only team who failed to score a any points this year. Australian Stoddart said the 2003 season had been frustrating and believes their efforts went unrewarded.

"The year ended on a positive note, with both cars yet again taking the chequered flag," said Stoddart today at Suzuka.

"Overall, though, 'frustrating' is the way I would describe the season, in that our engine and driver line-up deserved more, but the lack of funds to develop the car cost us dearly, despite a fantastic effort from all our staff throughout what has been a most difficult year.

"I'd like to thank all our personnel, not only on the race team, but also in the factories at Faenza and Ledbury. Together with our technical and commercial partners, they have given 110 per cent throughout 2003."

Dutchman Jos Verstappen finished today's Japanese Grand Prix in 15th position, while Dane Nicolas Kiesa was down in 16th.