“Once again we had the right speed in Singapore, but not when it was really necessary. The fastest race laps aren't worth anything, if you don't combine them with the situation when they really count.

“Obviously I'm really sad about this situation and very sorry for the team, because they've done some great work to improve the F2008. I can't explain this dark period, and there's nothing I can do to change what happened. We have to look ahead, to the last three races.

“It hurts losing these points, but we know that we've got what it takes to fight for victory in the last three grands prix. Let's hope that I'll finally have a smooth weekend, from Friday to Sunday evening.”