Fisichella: « Force India can be very competitive »
Giancarlo Fisichella claims he joined Force India because he believes it is a team on the rise and can prove to be very competitive. The 34-year-old Roman was let go by Renault at the end of last season as they decided not to renew his contract. He then joined Force India, which, under the name […]

Giancarlo Fisichella claims he joined Force India because he believes it is a team on the rise and can prove to be very competitive.
The 34-year-old Roman was let go by Renault at the end of last season as they decided not to renew his contract. He then joined Force India, which, under the name Spyker, scored a point last season.
Fisichella said that Force India was not his only option to continue racing, and he believes that the team has the potential to move forward.
« I am eager to join Force India for the next season. At the Jerez tests, I was very impressed by the team’s professionalism and commitment to moving forward, and I hope my experience will help them achieve these goals, » said Fisichella.
« Contrary to what people may think, it wasn’t my only option but it was the best: With new owners and a significant budget, I really believe we can hope for good results next year. I feel motivated and ready to help the team score points regularly. »
Fisichella, who will turn 35 on Monday, has taken part in 194 races over the course of his career.
« He is someone who has raced with the best, » said Indian billionaire Vijay Mallya at a press conference after the official announcement of the driver line-up for 2008.
« Experience and ability to assist the engineering team was a key requirement. »
Fisichella will be alongside the German Adrian Sutil in the race, who remains with the team following promising performances in 2007.
« I am very happy to stay with Force India for another season. There were other teams that showed a certain interest in me, but the opportunity to stay with a dynamic team that has great ambitions is crucial for me at this stage of my career, » stated Sutil.
« I am also very happy to have the opportunity to work with Giancarlo. He is very experienced and has helped Renault to win two world constructors’ championships. This can help both Force India and myself in the goal of learning and progressing. »
The team also appointed Vitantonio Liuzzi, a compatriot of Fisichella, to the role of reserve driver.
« I am very happy to assist Force India in their development and testing program this year. With more resources, the focus will be on testing, and the role of the test driver will be crucial in the search for performance, » said the Italian.
« I know that I can play a big role in the team, which is a good opportunity for me to move forward. »