For Da Matta his first year in Formula One was one of having to make huge steps in his learning curve of Formula One. He did come into Formula One as the 2002 CART champion but this did not mean a lot.

Brunner said in an interview for Autosport: "He's learning all the circuits as well. Coming from CART, I was quite impressed by him in Monte Carlo." Cristiano was tenth fastest in qualifying.

Brunner added: "That was pretty good for a newcomer. He's a very reliable, consistent driver, and there's nothing wrong with that.

"F1 is a lot more technical than CART, and this is where you need the time for him to adapt. It's probably the most difficult thing."

As for Da Matta's future with the team it was recently announced that he would be partnered with Olivier Panis in 2004. Team boss Ove Andersson said: "They've also played an integral role in developing the TF103 race car. Now we must aim for higher positions."