By Bigpip
June 24 2002

A first lap collision between team mates Giancarlo Fisichella and Takuma Sato put pay to any chances Jordan may have had for a successful European Grand prix. Having suffered with understeer and qualifying 18th, Giancarlo was the culprit on this occasion, colliding with the rear of Takuma's EJ12. Fisi made it back to the pits with a broken front wing but 34 laps later retired from the race.

Giancarlo:
"I'm not sure exactly what happened, but after the start I was braking into the first corner, and I think somebody pushed me out a little bit.  I lost grip and went into Takuma's car, which I'm very sorry about."

"Unfortunately there was so much damage to my car that it was undriveable and there was no possibility to be quick and continue racing. It is a disappointment to end my 100th Grand Prix this way, but I hope to forget it and I am looking forward to the next race."

Takuma:
"I made a reasonable start and I was side by side with the two Toyotas and Olivier Panis, when Giancarlo hit me. It's a bit disappointing but these things happen. It is a very tight corner with everybody turning in, so I can't blame him,"

"After the accident I decided to get on with the race and do my best, fighting hard even though everybody was lapping me. It was important for me to finish and bring the car back in one piece."

Giancarlo was at a loss to explain the EJ12's performance over this weekend.  So much so that the rumour mill now has Giancarlo linked to a move to Sauber at the end of the year.  There may be a clause in Giancarlo's contract which allows him to move on if Jordan loose their supply of Honda engines which is looking increasingly likely.  Fisi would move to Sauber with the long term goal of a drive for Ferrari.  He would replace Nick Heidfeld who is linked to a move to Toyota.

Fisichella is know to be disappointed with Jordan's performance this year and was hoping to win races with the car but it would appear that the Italians feelings have changed and that Eddie will be looking for a new driver during the winter break.