Montoya issues challenge

JUAN PABLO MONTOYA laid down the gauntlet to world championship-leading rival Michael Schumacher here on Friday when he set the fastest time in the first qualifying session for the Italian Grand Prix.

Colombian Montoya, who trails Schumacher by just one point in the title race, showed his Williams machine should be on the pace this weekend and prevented Ferrari from securing a one-two finish in front of their home fans.

Under clear blue skies, and with track temperatures rising above 40C, Montoya rose to the challenge to take the early lead in one of the most crucial weekends of the championship.