The 37-lap race of the new GP2 Series began in warm and overcast conditions at Imola. Giorgio Pantano started the race from second position on the grid with team mate Adam Carroll lining up behind him in 7th position. It was an eventful race with numerous position changes due to the two-stop strategy. Giorgio known for his excellent rolling starts had the race lead and drove an excellent race but on the final laps had brake failure and pulled over finishing in a disappointing 13th place. Being Adam's debut to the circuit he drove an impressive race from start to finish, due to speeding in the pit lane he was given a drive through penalty and four laps before the end whilst leading the race he pitted for his penalty and finished in a comfortable 5th position.
Giorgio Pantano DNF (P13)
"I am very happy about what we achieved today the team worked very hard and the car felt great. I am just so disappointed that I led the race for nothing. We will see what happens tomorrow, I know the car goes well so I have a good chance of getting some points".
Adam Carroll 1:02.37 (P5)
"The car felt great and the team did a really good job today, everybody worked well together and the car was quick. Unfortunately I got a little excited and speeded in the pits, which cost me a race win or at least 2nd place. I'm in 4th position for tomorrows race and I feel in good shape. I am looking forward to it."
Team Principal - David Sears
"What a fantastic race we had today with both drivers capable of winning the race. Giorgio Pantano lead the race but on his first pit stop someone walked in front of his car and delayed him from leaving the pits, he recovered well to lead the race again. Despite pressure from Kovalainen Giorgio would have won the race comfortably until he had complete brake failure 2 laps before the end, luckily retiring without damage. Adam was penalised and eventually finished in 5th place, however without this penalty he would of won the race just ahead of Kovalainen. For tomorrows race Adam starts in 4th place and Giorgio in 13th. The most important thing is both drivers know they are capable of winning races".
