Monteiro rookie of the year
Although not an official title, the rookie of the year honour is always something to note in Formula One. This year, Tiago Monteiro from Portugal was the most successful new driver in the pinnacle of motorsport, having scored seven points and finished in 18 out of 19 events. Thanks to his lucky podium in the six car US Grand Prix, he ended up 16th in the overall standings.
Tiago Monteiro "I can only be happy about what I have achieved this year in my first season of Formula One. I am the best rookie in the series, I beat a 40-year-old record old that belonged to Sir Jackie Stewart - the greatest number of races finished by a rookie."
However, the future of the 29 year-old in Formula One is far from secure, as he has not yet signed a contract for 2006.
