Miserable 100th GP for Fisichella

"I'm not sure exactly what happened, but after the start I was braking into the first corner, and I think somebody pushed me out a little bit," he said. "I lost grip and went into Takuma's car, which I'm very sorry about. Unfortunately there was so much damage to my car that it was undriveable and there was no possibility to be quick and continue racing. It is a disappointment to end my 100th grand prix this way, but I hope to forget it and I am looking forward to the next race."

Sato lost a lap in the pits while his front wing was replaced, but he rejoined and went on to finish 16th.

"I made a reasonable start and I was side by side with the two Toyotas and Olivier Panis, when Giancarlo hit me.," he said. "It's a bit disappointing but these things happen. It is a very tight corner with everybody turning in, so I can't blame him. After the accident I decided to get on with the race and do my best, fighting hard even though everybody was lapping me. It was important for me to finish and bring the car back in one piece."