Stirling Moss Praises Minardi Tactics

Former Formula One star Stirling Moss praised Australian Minardi boss Paul Stoddart for "inspired" tactics during Saturday's qualifying session for Sunday's Australian Grand Prix.

Taking advantage of a loophole in the new rules - and the fact that his team were destined to start from the back of the grid - Stoddart told his drivers to pull into the pits rather than set a qualifying time.

The tactic will allow them to work on the car overnight while the other teams' machines remain under scrutiny in Parc Ferme, something that could pay off if, as forecasted, it rains during the race.

"I think that Paul Stoddart did a terrific job," enthused Moss. "What a stunt! If it rains, he is going to be sitting on the back of the grid with his cars on wet tyres and with full tanks of fuel. Brilliant!"

Moss believes Stoddart played his hand as best he could and added: "It makes you wonder why Ron Dennis did not think of it!"