Panis hits back at critics

'I had a problem at Imola with David Coulthard, who said that the reason he did not win was maybe my fault. For me, it was not my fault.

'I saw David behind me, but I was fighting with Giancarlo Fisichella and it was very important for me to get the best possible result for my team.

'I was pushing 100 per cent, like I always do. Then Alain [Prost] called me on the radio and asked me to let David Coulthard pass.

'OK, I changed the line to let him through - and after three corners he went off into the gravel. I am very sorry, but that was not my fault!'

Panis also denied he is planning a move from the Prost team to Arrows.

'For me it is just a rumour. I am concentrating on my job and my team, Prost-Peugeot, because this is a very important season for all of us.'

'The first plan is the French Grand Prix this weekend, to develop the car and get a good result.

'I am very happy with the balance of the car, and we have a very good engine for qualifying.'