Renault extend Fisichella's contract

The Italian, whose future was up in the air with his contract expiring at the end of the season, will continue at Renault for the third year in a row.

"It was very important for me to know my future as soon as possible in the season," said the Italian. "I am delighted to be staying at Renault next year, and to have the opportunity to see my hard work with the team over the past two seasons come to fruition.

"I want to thank the Renault F1 Team and the Renault Group for the trust they have placed in me. This clear vision for the future means I can focus 100% on the job at hand: retaining the Constructors' Championship with Renault in 2006 and finishing as high as possible in the drivers' standings."

Renault team boss Flavio Briatore added: "We are extremely pleased to continue working with Giancarlo next year. He was an integral part of our championship success last year; he has upped his game significantly for 2006, making the team even stronger; we believe he can do it again for 2007.

"It is important for Renault to maintain continuity as we move into next year, and Giancarlo's integration with the team is now perfect. What's more, his experience with the team over two championship campaigns will be an invaluable asset. We will have ambitious targets for next season, and Giancarlo is capable of achieving them."

It is yet unknown who will partner the Italian, with test driver Heikki Kovalainen as one of the favourites.