Fisichella: Alonso exit no problem

World Champion Alonso announced at the end of last year his plans to drive for McLaren in 2007, when his current contract with Renault expires.

While some of Renault's rivals have voiced their belief that Alonso's decision will hurt the French squad in 2006, Fisichella claims there are no problems at all.

"Everyone must make their own choices and Alonso felt this was the best one," Gazzetta dello Sport quoted Fisichella as saying. "But there are no problems, and there's still a great atmosphere inside the team.

"We'll both be able to benefit from this, and that will pay off for the team."

Fisichella also talked up his own chances in this year's championship, saying the new R26 will suit his driving style better than last year's car.

"I'm satisfied with the car and I'm optimistic for the upcoming season," he said. "I'd like to fight for the top positions in the championship.

"Last year [the car] was probably closer to the style of Alonso, who is an aggressive driver at turn entry, while I've always been very tidy.

"Together with the designers we managed to improve the car, and on 12 March in Bahrain we can already do well since we've worked hard during the winter. On my part, I'll try to be more determined and tough."

The Italian driver, however, believes the battle for the title will be hard, with several teams racing at the top, including Ferrari, who Fisichella reckons will bounce back this year.

"[Ferrari] will certainly be among the favourites, as they are every year after all, even though the championship is becoming harder and harder due to the improvements of certain teams who are able to fight at the top," he added.