Fisi quietly confident for Suzuka

Like most drivers, Suzuka is Fisichella's second favourite circuit after Spa-Francorchamps, and although one of the most technical circuits on the F1 calendar, the Italian can't wait to get his teeth into it.

"Scoring two more championship points at the inaugural Chinese Grand Prix was a great result and a good debut at this fantastic new track," he said. "And Suzuka is a great track too, maybe the best after Spa. I love the circuit! It's very interesting to drive, and has lots of difficult corners.

"The first part in particular is very technical. And it's a place, one of the few, where a driver's talent can make up time. It's also a Bridgestone circuit, so I am hoping that we will have some great tyres there! I think it will suit us very well with the Sauber Petronas, and I am feeling quietly confident."

Felipe Massa shares the same view as his team-mate and believes the C23 will be particularly strong at the Japanese track.

"The track has a very special atmosphere, because the Japanese fans are so enthusiastic and knowledgeable," the Brazilian said. "And as it is in Bridgestone's homeland, we naturally want to do really well for them. And I think we can. The C23 likes very quick corners and our best race this year was in Spa, which has a similar character to Suzuka. I think we can get the job done there."