Fisichella Delighted after 'Great Qualifying'

Italian Giancarlo Fisichella was delighted after ensuring his best performance of the 2001 season in Saturday's qualifying for the Japanese Grand Prix, where the Benetton team completed a promising day ahead of the final race of the season.

Fisichella, competing in his final Grand Prix for the Renault-owned team before moving to Jordan next season, placed himself in a season-best sixth position, three places ahead of teammate Jenson Button. The Italian driver was delighted with his performance.

"A great qualifying session - the best of the year for both Jenson and myself," said Fisichella. "I must say that I was confident even before the start. It's a big satisfaction, especially as we had some problems yesterday that delayed today's programme.

"I ran with the new engine specification and the car had a very good balance. I am confident for tomorrow and I would like to thank the whole team for the effort everyone has put in."

Benetton are currently tied with Jaguar in seventh place in the Constructors' Championship, so today's performance boosted the French team's hopes of finishing ahead of the Ford-owned outfit.