Fisichella Blames Error for Poor Showing

The Italian failed to get the best out of his Renault and could only manage eighth on the grid - with teammate Fernando Alonso taking second place thanks to Kimi Raikkonen's engine change.

Fisichella believed he could make up positions in the race, which will be essential as Renault bid to defend their nine points advantage in the Constructors' Championship.

"I am very disappointed after that lap," said Fisichella. "I locked up under braking for the first chicane, and lost at least half a second in that corner and on the straight afterwards. Without that, I think I could have certainly been in the top five, so obviously I am quite a long way from the potential this afternoon.

"But I am still positive for tomorrow - we will see how much fuel the other cars have for their first stint, and I think our strategy will help me to climb some more positions."