Fisichella upbeat after Bahrain

[davewilson]

Giancarlo Fisichella concluded his pre-season testing programme with some quick lap-times and is confident the team had made good progress with the R27 in Bahrain.

Giancarlo, you have now completed the final test of the 2007 pre-season. How did it go?
"Things went pretty well for us this week. From the first day on Tuesday to the final day, we made some good progress with the car, and that’s a positive sign. There was a big step forward with the balance and set-up, and I think we look more competitive now. For sure, we are still behind Ferrari in particular, they looked very strong this week. McLaren are a little bit ahead too, and BMW are competitive as well, but I think we have made a good step forward."

You start the season with a new team-mate. How are you getting on with Heikki?
"We have a very good relationship. He is a nice guy, and we are working together, which is important for the team. He seems very focused – and quick."

How have you been preparing for Melbourne?
"I have been working really hard on my fitness training this winter. I have done a lot of work at home with my fitness trainer, and then plenty of laps in the car as well. So I am feeling very good, feeling ready, and looking forward to the start of the season."

You are working with new race engineers this year too. Have you built a good rapport?
"Yes, everything is going very well.   
They are in new positions, but we have seen this week that we can make good improvements to the car, and work well together. Everybody is learning all the time, but we are in good shape – and there is plenty of potential for the future."

How is the atmosphere in the team?
"The atmosphere is good and the motivation is high. Is everybody happy? No, and we are not satisfied, because you can only feel like that when you are at the front. But the team is doing a fantastic job at the moment. You only have to see how hard they worked at the track to repair Heikki’s car this week, to know their commitment is 100%. And we have new developments from the factory too, so everybody is pushing hard."

Is it too early to make predictions for Melbourne?
"I think we have a good estimate of where everybody is, but until you start running at the race, you never know… I think we have to aim to be on the podium. The reliability of our package is very good at the moment, and that can be a big asset in the opening races. The team is hungry, and ready to go. Everybody is looking forward to seeing what we can do."

The Stig