Fisichella: My Luck is Turning

The Italian began his 10th season in Formula One with a victory in Australia in March, the second Grand Prix win of his career after a shock triumph for Jordan at a rain-drenched Brazilian race at Interlagos in 2003.

But the 32-year-old failed to finish the next three races and has watched teammate Fernando Alonso win five times to take a 26-point lead in the title race.

"I've had lots of mechanical and technical problems, it's just been an unlucky period," Fisichella said at the German Grand Prix on Friday. "It happens sometimes in Formula One.

"I've had an unlucky period but now I'm sure it's going to be right this weekend. I'd like to win more races and score lots of points, it's possible that I'll win races, why not?"

The Roman is keen to quash any talk about his team favouring his 23-year-old teammate in the battle to see off the McLaren challenge and win both the Drivers' and Constructors' Championships.

"The cars are completely the same and the same people working just as hard for both of us," he said. "For the team, if we are first and second it doesn't matter who wins.

"I've got a great car, a great team and I won the first race, it's going to be right."

If he does not win this weekend, Fisichella believes he will have his chances in the seven remaining races.

"I like Budapest, I think our car's going to be right there, and obviously I won a race in Brazil so I like it there," he said.

Despite his optimism, the Italian had a difficult first practice day at Hockenheim.

Both Renaults were sidelined by software problems in the first session and in the second, Fisichella had a minor collision with Minardi's Christijan Albers. He ended up sixth fastest.

"We had a few problems with the grip level because of the low temperature on the track but I think we can fight with McLaren," said the Italian. "I think McLaren are a little bit stronger than us but anything can happen."

"If it's hotter then it's better," he said, looking outside as rain began to fall on the paddock.