Fisichella – Force India: Is an agreement possible?

Giancarlo Fisichella has put all his ambition into the Force India team. He wants to stay in F1 next season.

The Italian, whose departure from Renault was confirmed on Monday, is still looking for a position for 2008 but has tested for Force India, which has a seat available alongside Adrian Sutil.

Fisichella is one of the many drivers who participated in the Jerez tests for the Indian team. The Roman openly states that he is more than interested in this position.

« My goal is to race for Force India, » stated Fisichella to Autosprint.

I wouldn’t have participated in these tests otherwise, because it’s always something very difficult. All the drivers in Jerez were there for the position available.

« Even Ralf Schumacher often went to the side of the track to see the trajectories. He never did that with Toyota. »

The 34-year-old Italian says he would be unhappy not to find a seat in 2008. He believes he deserves better from Renault, which announced on Monday the return of Fernando Alonso and the appointment of Nelson Piquet Jr as drivers for 2008.

« If it’s about technical level, then it’s a shame because I think I still deserve a place in F1. I expected a bit more consideration from Renault, as in three years I contributed to the pursuit of two constructor titles, » he added.

« But I don’t consider the Force India option as a stopgap, but as a new phase in my career.

If he doesn’t find a race seat, Fisichella admits he would be willing to become a test driver for a team with an acceptable level of performance.

« If I am not a race driver in 2008, I would look at offers for a test driver role. In that case, it will depend on the team making the offer. There are teams ahead on the market so this possibility remains conceivable as a last resort. »

He has, however, ruled out moving to another series.

« I want to race in F1, and I think I can still do it. I know the first races will be difficult, but I see great potential in this team. Moreover, they don’t lack financial resources, » he stated.

« I don’t think the driver will be chosen based on any potential budget they could bring. They told me they want an experienced driver to team up with Sutil. »

« Well, I am the man for the job. Before starting. I will have an answer before Christmas, » concluded Fisichella.