Nordic aims to shine at championship's 'jewel'.

The Coca-Cola Nordic Racing team heads to Monaco next weekend as leader of both the drivers' and teams' championships, and has the impressive foundation of three wins, four podiums and one pole position on which to build its fifth round attack.

Monaco is a circuit that demands the constant respect of the drivers. One small error as they brush the metal barriers at speeds of up to 160mph could result in the immediate end to their race but, as the only way to set a fast time around the narrow twisting streets of the principality is to use all of the track, brushing the Armco is a requisite.

In 2000, the team finished fourth at Monaco and, this year, the objective is to go faster and finish higher, as two-time race winner - and championship leader - Justin Wilson is at pains to point out.

"We have started the year so strongly that anything less than a points finish would be out of the question," he said, "Both myself and my team-mate Tomas [Enge], along with the team, expect strong results in Monaco. To finish in the points would be the very least that we would accept.

"As always, qualifying is the single most important event of the weekend and this is compounded at a place like Monaco. The track is very narrow and twisty, affording little opportunity to pass in the race. Therefore we need to be as close to the front of the grid as possible. A Coca-Cola Nordic Racing one-two, similar to the one we secured in Spain, would be nice!"

The circuit is overlooked by the Grimaldi castle and the race around the harbour of Monaco has become the epitome of motor racing splendour - the jewel in the crown. Team principal Derek Mower is keen to capitalise on his team's early success this season, and winning that 'jewel' is something he feels the team are capable of doing.

"Providing our drivers can find the space for their share of clear laps, we should qualify well," he said, "but driving within the tight confines of the Monaco circuit - and anticipating all the yellow flags - will be difficult for everyone. We will all have to be alert and do our best."

"From the moment you walk around the circuit, you can see what a special talent it takes to win here," added team manager Chris Mower, "All you need is one mistake and it's all over. Our job is to give Justin and Tomas a car they can do it with. Even if you qualify well, Monaco has claimed a lot of victims to attrition and this is one place you can't rest, physically or mentally."