Delighted Fisichella Aims Higher for Monza

Italian Giancarlo Fisichella took advantage of a rejuvenated Benetton to clinch an unexpected third place at Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, and he was delighted with the result after a tough season at the Renault-owned team.

"This was a brilliant result," admitted Fisichella, who will drive for Jordan next year. "Our new aerodynamics package has made the car much more competitive and it is easier to drive, easier to set up and has much more grip than before."

The Italian battled with McLaren's David Coulthard for most of the race, but eventually had to concede second place to the Scot, who was not capable of overtaking the Benetton for several laps.

Despite losing second position to the McLaren driver, Fisichella was pleased with his performance, and said he was expecting his team to move further up the field at the Italian Grand Prix in two weeks time.

"We had a little bit of understeer at the beginning, but after that the car was perfect - and we are expecting a new engine development at Monza, so hopefully that will take us further forward still," he added. "This has been a great day and I would like to thank the whole team for a great job."

Fisichella's teammate Jenson Button continued with his dismal season, crashing out at the bus stop chicane on lap 17 of the race.