Stoddart Encouraged by Gap to Jordan

Dutchman Christijan Albers finished in 19th position, but less than a second behind the Jordan of Tiago Monteiro. The performance was an improvement over the previous race in Malaysia, where the quickest Minardi had been nearly 1.5 seconds off the closest Jordan's pace.

"All things considered, to be less than a second from our nearest rival with the old car is pleasing indeed," said Stoddart. "It inspires hope and a renewed sense of confidence in the team when we know how much quicker the new car should be in the coming races.

"We believe Minardi's goal for this year, of finishing ninth place in the World Constructors' Championship, remains realistic.  As usual, both drivers, and the entire team, put in a sterling effort today."     

Albers' teammate Patrick Friesacher finished at the bottom of the times, nearly a second off the Dutch driver's pace.