Toyota encouraged by race

Toyota's team principal Tsutomu Tomita said he was encouraged by his team's TF105 car despite a poor result at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix.

Despite securing the team's first front row start thanks to a lucky Saturday qualifying, Italian driver Jarno Trulli struggled with a blistered tyre during a big part of the race and went on to finish down in ninth position, outside the points.

German teammate Ralf Schumacher, who was forced to complete an unexpected pitstop after his seatbelt got loose, also failed to shine and finished in 12th place a lap down.

Tomita, however, was positive about the weekend.

"There are many positives from the weekend," said Tomita. "We scored our best ever qualifying result with Jarno starting the race from second place. Starting the race from the front row was fantastic to witness and particularly pleasing for the top executives from Toyota who joined us today.

"Additionally, I am encouraged by the performance of the TF105. Even with the problems that we encountered during the race, the car's reliability was excellent and we were able to finish the race on the same lap as the winner.

"Compared to last year, when we finished two laps down, I think that demonstrates the progress we have made over the last twelve months. And there is plenty more to come. With the new engine regulations in place, we have enjoyed a totally trouble-free weekend here in Melbourne with our RVX-05 and Toyota has no concerns for the next Grand Prix in Malaysia."

Toyota said before the start of the season they were hoping to score some podiums throughout the year.

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- The Autosport.com Team

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