Eddie Irvine’s race has come to a premature end on lap 43 when the Ulsterman pulled his Jaguar onto the grass with flames licking out of the engine.

David Coulthard was quickest in practice for the Canadian Grand Prix, just ahead of Juan-Pablo Montoya.

Michael Schumacher launched his bid for a record-equalling fifth drivers’ crown with victory in an extraordinary Australian Grand Prix which just eight cars finished in Melbourne this morning.

Allan McNish will become Britain's latest Formula One racer next season after being confirmed as Toyota's second driver.