Fisichella: No doubts about 2009 seat

"The line-up has been announced in China in October by Vijay, and I trust people who trust me," Fisichella told the official F1 website.

"I originally signed a two-year contract which was reviewed in September to incorporate the McLaren deal. In a few words, the team offered me a better car and a different package.

"I accepted their proposal and both sides signed the new document between Singapore and China. This is why Dr Mallya made the announcement in Shanghai," added the Italian.

Although team boss Vijay Mallya said both Fisichella and Adrian Sutil would stay on next season, speculation about their future was rife after McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa tested for the team for two days earlier this month.

Force India signed a technical deal with McLaren and Mercedes and the Silverstone-based squad will use the German engines in 2009.

Fisichella said he was not surprised by de la Rosa's test.

"The only thing I know is that in September we were told that Pedro could test and we could not say before it was made official so I was not at all surprised," he added.

"As for the rest - I am not really interested in F1 gossip!"

The Roman admitted he is looking forward to next season, as he has been promised he will have a strong car.

"A competitive package, that's all I want and what I have been promised. And that is a very good reason to drive for the team in 2009."