By TTF1
March 6 2005

Jarno secured Toyota's best grid position, but due to problems he slipped back. Ralf had a pretty poor race due to the weather conditions in 1st qualifying. Jarno Trulli (Car 16, Chassis TF105/03)

Race Classification: 9th (+63.1s)
Cumulative Qualifying: 2nd (3m04.429s / +2.969s)

"The start of the race was very special, having secured Panasonic Toyota
Racing's best ever qualifying result and first front row position in this
morning's qualifying session. I got away well, kept my second place into the
first corner and had a good first stint, fighting at the front. After my pit
stop, I had a problem with the rear tyre which dropped me down the field and
unfortunately out of contention for points. Yes, it is a shame that we lost
a good opportunity to score points, but I have been encouraged by the
TF105's performance over the weekend and we head to Malaysia where we will
try to make up for the disappointment today."

Ralf Schumacher (Car 17, Chassis TF105/04)

Race Classification: 12th (+1 lap)
Cumulative Qualifying: 15th (3m22.717s/ +21.257s)

"It is a pity because I had a great start and all was going well. I could
not overtake at the beginning unfortunately, because it was not possible to
get close enough to make a move. Then I had a problem with the seat belt
which forced me to visit the pit once more. By then, the race was over for
me, but I kept on pushing because you never know what can happen in
Melbourne. I want to compliment the whole team for their outstanding
efforts. The car was in good shape with a good balance and the pit stops
were well executed. We could have had a great result today."

Tsutomu Tomita - Team Principal
"We are naturally disappointed that we could not convert our front row
qualifying result into points this afternoon. We had a very competitive
first stint. Jarno was able to retain second and keep pace with the leader.
But after his first pit stop, one of his rear tyres blistered and that meant
he struggled thereafter, especially in the middle stint, dropping him out of
the points. Ralf had a great first lap. After his first refueling stop, his
seat belt became loose, so he had to pit for an adjustment. His final two
stints showed the true pace of the car with some competitive running. There
are many positives from the weekend. 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 ra!
ce, 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."

T-car: TF105/02 (set-up for Ralf Schumacher)