Monteiro Delighted after First 'Real' Point

The Portuguese rookie, who had finished in third place at the United Stated Grand Prix when only six cars competed, put on a strong performance to claim eighth place after having started from the final row of the grid.

"I have really enjoyed myself driving today on my favourite track, especially under these weather conditions as we know they suit us and we can improve our positions," said Monteiro. "The Bridgestone tyres worked very well all the way and I felt very confident.

"I am delighted for the whole team and myself, this is a real point and we definitely deserved it. We had a tough time yesterday in qualifying but our strategy paid off. I am so happy."

With the result, Monteiro has now finished 16 races in a row.

Sporting director Adrian Burgess said the team were not expecting to score any more points after Indianapolis.

"After Indianapolis, we would not have thought we could take any more points but this is really great for everybody involved here at the circuit and back at the factory, plus our partners Bridgestone and Toyota," he said.