Briatore still optimistic of podium finish

Fisichella could manage no better than 11th on the grid after falling foul of a tight midfield pack in the second knockout qualifying session, while a heavy fuel load for Alonso left him fifth on the grid.

But despite the result, Briatore believes that his team have chosen the right two-stop strategy and is hopeful that they will ultimately beat the lighter cars that are ahead of them on the grid.

"It is our strategy," said the Italian. "We know this race was going to be difficult for us - it was difficult last year. It is impossible to win every race and it is impossible to be on pole at every race.

"But we have done our strategy, we believe it is the correct strategy and only tomorrow will answer if we are right or wrong. But I believe we have the possibility to have both cars on the podium."

Speaking about Renault's main competitors, Briatore said: "I think McLaren have the same strategy that we have. There are two different strategies and if somebody believes the best way is two-stops, and some believe the best is three-stop then only the future, and I mean tomorrow, will tell us who is right or wrong."

Briatore also said he was not surprised at all about Ferrari's return to form at Imola - and conceded it would be difficult to beat them in the race.

"Ferrari were stronger last year here because the Bridgestone was fantastic," he explained. "But still we won the race, although we were lucky to not have Michael in front.

"This circuit is like Monaco or Budapest. It is very difficult to overtake and you only overtake in the strategy, in the pitstop, so let's see tomorrow. If Ferrari wins it is good for F1."