By Jamie Makin
August 16 2004

Team SAUBER PETRONAS driver Giancarlo Fisichella finished eighth in today’s Hungarian Grand Prix at the Hungaroring, but Felipe Massa was forced to retire after 21 laps due to a brake problem. Today was another day of mixed fortunes for the team. Giancarlo Fisichella's point scored gives the team a boost over their nearest rivals Jaguar and Toyota. "After his strong qualifying performance, Giancarlo drove an error-free and consistent race that was fully deserving of the point we scored," commended Team Principal Peter Sauber. "That is even more important for us as our immediate rivals did not score."

Fisichella has always enjoyed racing at the Hungaroring and his skill at the track served him well today. "The race went almost exactly the way I expected it to, right down to the start!" said the Roman. "It was a good race for me, and even though one point isn't really enough it was still good to score it. The car had very good pace and balance, and the sole problem was the tyres graining two or three laps after each pit stop, but that cleared up after five or six laps. I did my best and really pushed, and I didn't make any mistakes, so I am pleased with myself and the teamwork and now I'm really looking forward to Spa."

Meanwhile Felipe Massa's luck when from bad to worse. He started in last place due to an engine change in yesterday's practice session but made an early exit from the race with brake troubles. Sauber made the decision to end his race rather than risk an accident. "Felipe showed his speed once again, but had a lot of problems this weekend," explained Sauber. "After his disappointment in qualifying due to an engine problem he had to retire because of a malfunction in the braking system. Fingers crossed, Spa will be kinder to him and will allow him to demonstrate his true capability.

Massa knew his best chance to gain ground was at the start and he put forth his best effort to do so. "I was able to pass a few people at the start, and after Pantano went off the road I could catch up easily with Panis," the Brazilian said. "Unfortunately, after my first stop I had a problem with a 'long' brake pedal at the end of the straight. We made another pit stop to check the brake system but when the team couldn't fix the problem they advised me to stop for safety reasons."

Overall one point is still a victory for the Swiss team as the Hungaroring was not expected to suit the C23 or its Bridgestone tyres very well. The upcoming races at Spa-Francochamps and Monza will be even better opportunities for SAUBER to score. Both are considered "power circuits" and the PETRONAS badged Ferrari engines have kept SAUBER at or near the top trap speeds all season. Look for them to give it their all to widen the gap to Jaguar and Toyota.

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