Fisico looking forward to good season

Tuesday, the Renault F1 Team launched its 2006 world championship challenger, the R26, in Monaco with the promise of an aggressive defence of the team’s double world championship. Here follows an interview with Giancarlo Fisichella, the Italian driver of Renault.

Interview with Giancarlo Fisichella

Giancarlo, first things first. There is a new season ahead of us, and you will have set yourself clear targets. Can you share them with us?
"It is simple for me: I am aiming for the world championship. This is a team that is defending the world title and working hard to win it again, so I am looking forward to a great season. I want to score points, win races and be in the fight for the championship until the last races of the season."

Tell us a little about the car you will be driving, the R26…
"It looks really good to me, and the first impression I had gave me a lot of confidence. From the outside, it looks quite similar to the R25, that was what we wanted it to feel like too, because that car was very nice for the drivers. I remember in 2005, my first run was a very nice surprise – the car was excellent. I have the same feeling with the R26."

What was your feeling with the RS26?
"Of course, there is much less power than with the V10, and there is less torque. But I was impressed, the power delivery is very linear, and I think the whole engine team has done a fantastic job to get this engine ready for the new season."

2006 will also see numerous changes to sporting regulations, including tyre changes in the race and a new qualifying format. What is your opinion?
"There will definitely be some interesting strategies in 2006! In terms of the tyre changes, I think it is a better choice especially regarding the safety. The new qualifying format is very interesting for the drivers too. I think we will have some new tactics to try. I hope the spectacle will be a good one for the fans."

Finally, you will be team-mate to the reigning world champion in 2006. A lot of people will be wondering whether that changes anything in your approach?
"Fernando had a fantastic season in 2005, and he did a great job. But everybody starts the championship on an equal footing. We are on the same level in the championship and in the team. From my point of view, it starts again from zero in Bahrain, and I hope we can have a good rivalry this year."