Webber Hampered by Frentzen's Engine Failure

Australian Mark Webber blamed the oil from Heinz-Harald Frentzen's engine for not posting a better time in today's first qualifying for the Monaco Grand Prix.

Webber, who was fastest for Jaguar in the morning practice session, came out right after Frentzen's engine let go on his flying lap.

The Jaguar driver was forced to abort his run, and when the session was finally resumed after more than 25 minutes, Australian Webber was hampered by the cement dust laid on track to dry the oil and finished in ninth position.

"The team did a great job on the car and we had some favourable conditions, but as always with this one-lap qualifying anything can happen and unfortunately as a result of oil on the track my lap time suffered," said Webber.

"It is impossible to say where I would have been had there been no oil, but either way, it is Saturday that we are now concentrating on and we are looking forward to another good day on track."

Brazilian rookie Antonio Pizzonia, driving a Formula One car for the first time on the streets of Monte Carlo, finished down in 15th position.

"Slightly disappointed with 15th but the circuit was somewhat slippery, particularly just before the swimming pool corner," said the Brazilian. "I had achieved a lap that was one second faster this morning so I know that the car is capable of more.

"My morning session however was good and we did what we had planned, despite me getting slightly too close to one of the guardrails at one point. Fortunately there was only marginal damage to the rim and we continued without problems. I am however, encouraged by the pace of the R4 on the track and I am looking forward to getting back on track on Saturday."