Speed fights back pain on way to 10th

"This was one of the toughest races I have ever driven, because I was in so much pain throughout the race," said the American after putting on a strong performance at Magny-Cours.

"I had a really good first lap battle with Rubens, which was actually a lot of fun. It was cool - an awesome fight. After the first pitstop, I was in so much pain it was difficult to concentrate," he added.

"I went off the track at one point as I couldn't concentrate on driving, braking, adjusting the traction control and deal with the pain all at the same time. But our pace was okay, the car performed well as we had done a good job setting it up."

His Italian teammate Tonio Liuzzi finished three places behind after an uneventful race from the back of the grid.

"To say the obvious, being at the back is not the best way to start a race, especially at a track like this where there are not too many chances to overtake," said the Italian. "I don't think having a V10 helped us. But the tyres and the car worked well."