Exclusive Q&A with Giancarlo Fisichella 04 May 2006
He may appear to be a driver plagued by bad luck, but 163 race starts and three wins into his Formula One career, Giancarlo Fisichella believes there is still something out there for him. And he is ready to go for it at the Nurburgring this weekend…
Q: This year could be your last shot at the championship. How would you analyze your situation?
Giancarlo Fisichella: I do not know if you can say the last shot, it will certainly be a great opportunity and I am taking it, of course.
Q: Is there a psychological impact in being the team mate of the world champion?
GF: Not really. I have more than once analyzed my performance compared to
Fernando’s and I know I have the same speed so it is up to circumstances.
Q: Fernando Alonso leads the drivers’ championship and is 21 points ahead of you. However, he is leaving the team at the end of the season. Could that influence the team’s strategy in your favour? After all, who would want to have a champion who leaves for another team?
GF: Until we get to the point when mathematics will be taken into account nothing will be decided.
Q: You should have won many races in the past - and haven’t. Some have said you lack the will to win, that ‘killer instinct’. However, you appear mentally stronger than ever. Are you ready now?
GF: Actually I had more than one chance to win, and I won three times already. I am sure more will come and I face each race with the same objectives.
Q: This year’s car seems well suited to you. What is it that makes you feel more comfortable in the R26 than in last year’s car?
GF: More stability in the rear and therefore a car better suited to my driving style.
Q: It is early in the year, but as so many contracts terminate at the end of the season, where do you see yourself in 2007?
GF: I cannot see myself anywhere else but at Renault right now.
Q: You recently launched a perfume with your name. Is this a first step in preparing for life after racing? What else is in the pipeline?
GF: Not really. The perfume will sell more whilst I am still racing. I have not thought of quitting, believe me. There is still a lot more to do!
