“That was a disaster for me really! I had a lot of problems: tyres, the car, electronics, the engine overheating - everything," said Fisichella.

Earlier Ralph Firman was put out of the race on the very first lap after he was caught up in a major crash.

“It’s very disappointing to go out of the race. I went into the first corner and didn’t see anything that was going on but suddenly everyone slowed and I ended up tapping the back of Frentzen and damaging my front wing," said Firman.

"I thought it might be okay but then I was off the circuit on the outside when Justin came into the side of me, and there was just too much damage.”

Jordan Race Director Gary Anderson diplomatically described the race as "eventful".

"It was a disappointing day," admitted Anderson.