Fisichella shines again

"I never believed that sixth was possible," said Fisichella, who started from the back after a qualifying engine change. "The car was fantastic today, the balance and behaviour were impeccable. I made a good start, our strategy was perfect, and we did a great job as a team. The C23 is improving with every race, so we will keep getting better and better."

"Our race went exactly as we planned," added technical director Willi Rampf. "Starting at the back we gave Giancarlo a high fuel load for a long first stint, and because the Bridgestone tyres were so consistent today we were able to execute our chosen strategy."

After a slow start to the season, things are picking up for Sauber. The team is still fifth in the constructors' championship, fully five points ahead of McLaren-Mercedes in sixth. The only downside to its weekend was that Massa had a very slow getaway and then damaged his front wing amongst the tail-enders, which spoiled any chance of points for the Brazilian.