Panis: I Missed Out on a Podium Finish

Frenchman Olivier Panis claimed he would have finished on the podium had he not retired from the season opening Australian Grand Prix today.

The Toyota driver, who had qualified in an impressive fifth position, was running strongly until a fuel pressure problem forced him out of the race on lap 32, dashing his hopes of scoring the Japanese squad's first podium.

"We made a good decision to start the race on slick tyres and it is a real shame because we were going so well," Panis said. "I am sure we missed out on a podium today, but I want to remain positive. The car felt really good and I think the whole team has done a good job and we have shown our potential this weekend."

Brazilian Cristiano da Matta, meanwhile, admitted a silly mistake cost him the chance of finishing in his Grand Prix debut in Australia on Sunday.

Da Matta, the current CART champion, was competing in his first Formula One race after switching to Grand Prix racing this season with the Toyota team. The Brazilian's debut, however, was short-lived, as he spun off the track on lap seven after missing his braking point.

"I started the race on slick tyres when the track was still wet in places, so it was difficult to begin with but as the track dried I was making good progress and catching the guys in front of me," said da Matta. "As I was approaching turn Three, I had two cars to the left of me, so I couldn't see the 100-metre braking marker, and when I saw the 50-metre it was too late.

"It was just a silly mistake. The race was good fun while it lasted, but it was nowhere near long enough for me. We have been really competitive this weekend and I know the car is quick, so I am just looking forward to the next race."