Frenchman Jean Alesi was disappointed that his Formula One career ended in a crash at the Japanese Grand Prix, but was pleased no one was injured.
Frenchman Jean Alesi was disappointed that his Formula One career ended in a crash at the Japanese Grand Prix, but was pleased no one was injured.
Alesi, who had been pushing for a good finish, was in 10th place behind Kimi Raikkonen when the Sauber lost control over the bumps as the Finn spun at the exit of Dunlop Curve on lap seven. Alesi tried to avoid Raikkonen, but the youngster crossed his path and the pair crashed at more than 193 km/h.
Three wheels were ripped off the Sauber and two bounced across the track, narrowly missing the passing cars of Eddie Irvine and Giancarlo Fisichella. Both Alesi and Raikkonen escaped unhurt, although the Finn complained of a headache and a sore neck.
"It is sad to finish my career this way, but that is motor racing and I have to accept this situation," Alesi said.
"Both Kimi and I were really lucky to get away without any injuries and I am so relieved that I did not hurt him as he spun right in front of me and there was no way I could avoid him.
"There are just too many people I would like to thank so I can only really say that I think they know who they all are and I will be seeing them again! A special thanks goes to Eddie (Jordan) and the Jordan team. We have had a lot of fun over these past races."
Alesi’s team-mate, Jarno Trulli, finished in eighth place, in his last race before joining Renault next season. This gave Jordan very little to smile about.
"There is not a lot to say about today," Jordan said. "Jarno deserved better this season with us – he had a particularly unlucky season.
"I feel for Jean as this was a sad way to end his career. He is very philosophical about it though, and has clearly enjoyed the weekend immensely." Young Japanese driver Takuma Sato, the new British F3 champion, will take Alesi’s place next year.
Japan winner Michael Schumacher also paid tribute to Alesi after the race. "It will be quite sad because I think he still has the speed, and if you look around Formula One there are probably other drivers who should retire earlier than him," he said. "On the other hand, I would like to say that you never know. The winter is long, and with Jean … we will find out what happens next year."
