Panis Happy to Complete Final F1 Race

Frenchman Olivier Panis was happy to make it to the end of his last Formula One race, coming home in 14th place at today's Japanese Grand Prix.

The 38-year old Toyota driver is retiring from racing after the Suzuka race, as Brazilian Ricardo Zonta will compete alongside Italian Jarno Trulli at the season-ending race in Brazil.

Panis, who will stay at Toyota as a test driver, had a disappointing final race and could only finish down in 14th, two laps down. Despite that, the veteran of 158th Grands Prix, was happy to be able to complete the race.

"Although I am not satisfied with the result, we did our best in today's race," said Panis. "We took a risk with the tyre choice after the bad weather restricted our running on Friday, but I had a lot of graining this afternoon and I simply could not push.

"I am very happy that I could complete my last F1 race in front of all the Japanese fans. To stop racing after eleven years is a special moment. I would like to thank everyone in Toyota for two enjoyable years, all the support and for the F1 car that has been generously given to me as a gift.

"Although I have stopped racing, this is not the end because I have signed a two year contract as third driver. Now we have to continue the challenge."