June 10, 2004
Mark Nieuwlaar gained his first F1VWC points on his debut outing at Monte Carlo. He gave us his thoughts on his race debut.

Qualifying

Well I can?t say that I am very pleased with my start position, but again I never have driven at Monaco, simple because you can?t test here. But overall I was pleased with my lap and because I had to go as first on track, I know for sure I can go quicker but we will have to see that in the race.

Everything I didn?t like at the car we analysed that and we adjust the car so it would be very steady en with good grip at the front, now I have a car that I know will suit me and to get a good race pace with it I hope.

I need to thank Jan very much for his commitment to help me with a good setup and race strategy.

Race

Well my race pace was ok - not perfect but it was ok I had a really good car. I could have been quicker but I didn?t want to risk to park my car in my first race in the wall?s of Monaco. It don?t look professional - I think.

Then I have to thank my pit crew for those amazing pit stops - I think I had the quickest pit stops from all weekend.

I also need to thank to whole team for their input and Support! Really Phoenix F1 is a team of my heart! Everybody is standing ready for me if I had need to have some info or adjustments or name it!

I need to thank a few people specially:

- Andy G: for their believe in me to drive at Monaco!!

- Jan K: Thank you for your outstanding job as my race engineer.

- Antonio I: For your track information and tips!

- Daniel: For the research race strategy!