Fisichella confident in Monaco pace of R26

Giancarlo Fisichella, the Italian driver of the Mild Seven Renault F1 Team, is looking forward to the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix. Fisichella is confident that the R26 will again be quick in the Principality.

"It has always been a great circuit for me, and I have always been quick there. It is a very difficult circuit, but I have always enjoyed it and, more importantly, felt very comfortable driving there. I think that the race is going to be very tough physically and mentally, but I am really looking forward to it."

"It is really unusual! The feeling is very different compared to the first laps of the weekend at a normal circuit. You know, you go round the first few times and you’re telling yourself that it’s impossible to drive on the limit at this track. Then, after ten or fifteen laps, you get more confidence, you feel more comfortable, you start braking later, and you find the limit."

"You have to feel comfortable with everything. The R26 is a really easy car to drive – you can trust it when you are on the limit. As we build up the speed during the weekend, we will be getting closer and closer to the kerbs and the barriers, as we push to go flat out for qualifying. You need a car that is going to react how you want, and I think the Renault will do that."

"I am sure the R26 will be quick there, yes. The last race in Barcelona was good for me: after some difficult times, I had a weekend without problems and got to the podium, so I was pleased with that. We know that the battle is very tough at the moment, and a lot will depend on the Michelin tyres this weekend. The test team worked hard to find the right choices last week at Paul Ricard, so I think we can be optimistic. I am very confident I can have a very good weekend in Monaco."