It will not be an easy race - Fisico

This weekend, the 2007 Formula One season will finally kick-off at Melbourne. Giancarlo Fisichella, the Italian ING Renault F1 Team driver, is looking forward to the Australian Grand Prix and talks about his objectives.

"Yes, it's one of my favourite circuits, and I have very good memories after my win there in 2005. It is an interesting track because it's on public roads, so it is changing and evolving throughout the weekend, which is something we must adapt to with the set-up of the car."

"The R27 is an evolution of the R26 and the R25, both of which were always quick in Melbourne. We have a good baseline, and lots of potential in the car; and we have worked hard this winter to be able to fight with the front-runners at the start of the year. We know that it is quite a low grip circuit in Australia, so we will focus on that area. It will not be an easy race, and we don't expect it to be, but the motivation in the team is very high; we will make the most of every opportunity we have."

"I want to score as many points as possible in the early races of the year. If we cannot fight for the win, I will be trying to out-score my rivals, and finish on the podium if it is possible."

"It's hard to say at the moment. BMW and Williams seem like they are ready to challenge, but I think Ferrari, McLaren and Renault will once again be the main favourites at the start of the year. But now, we need to see if the race confirms our predictions…"