Fisichella Confident of Strong Race Despite Problems

Italian Giancarlo Fisichella is confident of a competitive European Grand Prix despite starting from the back of the grid.

The Sauber driver was forced to change his engine after it failed when he had completed just two laps on Friday's first practice session. Fisichella was penalised for it and decided not to take part in the final qualifying session in order to preserve the engine and the tyres.

"It was a tactical decision to conserve the tyres and not take part in the qualifying session, given that I have to move back 10 places on the grid because of my problem on Friday morning," said Fisichella at the end of qualifying.

"The car is still improving from race to race, and though it won't be an easy race at least you can overtake here and I know we can be competitive."

Brazilian teammate Felipe Massa was also confident of a stronger race pace after qualifying down in 16th position with the second Sauber.

"I made a mistake in Turn 7 which cost me at least a couple of positions," said Massa. "This morning it was difficult to find a good set-up but we improved the car for qualifying so I know that I will have a good car for the race."