Fisichella hoping for more speed

Giancarlo Fisichella believes Renault have still work to do to catch rivals Ferrari, but the Italian is convinced the French squad can do it

"We are there, a bit behind Ferrari, but we have the potential. We can do it," the Italian told autosport.com during testing at Barcelona.

Ferrari and rivals McLaren have been fighting for the fastest times during winter testing, with world champions Renault slightly behind them as the start of the season edges closer.

"We are going in the right direction, but we need a bit more speed," added Fisichella. "Heikki (Kovalainen) tried a new front wing package and I think it was better. That may improve the performance.

"I will try it and find out how it balances the car. Hopefully it gives more downforce so I hope I can have a better set-up."

The Italian added: "There is some work to do to be on top. Other people made a step forward. Ferrari look quite good over long runs. BMW looks good and McLaren too. In fact I expected McLaren to be much quicker here, but they are there.

"Williams did just a couple of days and they are quite good too."

Fisichella reckons Ferrari are looking like the team to be at the moment, at least judging by their performance in Barcelona.

The Italian squad dominated the second day of testing on Tuesday, with Brazilian Felipe Massa over half a second quicker than anyone else.

"Here Ferrari look more consistent (than McLaren), especially in the first couple of laps and the last few laps (of the stint). They are very competitive, they did a good job, they have worked a lot with Bridgestone. I think there is bit of an advantage."