JULY 20, 2002

Arrows go through the motions

The Orange Arrows team went through the motions of taking part in qualifying for the French Grand Prix.

THE Orange Arrows team went through the motions of taking part in qualifying for the French Grand Prix, sending out Heinz-Harald Frentzen and Enrique Bernoldi to complete just one lap each to be able to claim that they had participated in the event. Much depends on the interpretation of the word "participation" which is included in the key clauses in the Concorde Agreement as to whether or not Arrows's half-hearted effort amounted to participation or whether any action can be taken against the team. Much will depend on whether or not there are any complaints from the organizers or the FIA observers.

"Unfortunately we were unable to qualify either car today," said Tom Walkinshaw. "Our priority has to be to get this team back on its feet and in a position where we can build a positive future. It is sad but we'll go home and prepare for Hockenheim."

The team trucks will not actually be going back to Britain but will be heading directly to Hockenheim on Monday.