Fisichella not underestimating Kovalainen

Kovalainen, runner-up to Williams driver Nico Rosberg in the inaugural GP2 series in 2005, will replace two-time world champion Fernando Alonso at Renault, partnering Fisichella.

The young Finn will return to racing this season after having spent 2006 as the French squad's test driver.

But despite his lack of experience, Fisichella says Kovalainen is ready for Formula One.

"He is a rookie, but he isn't unprepared," Fisichella told Gazzetta dello Sport. "He has good experience in single seaters and he helped with the birth of this Renault R27 since the first tests. He's driven it more than me.

"I don't underestimate him. He is a focused, prepared, and quick rival."

Fisichella reckons, however, that he will benefit from new Bridgestone tyres, which he believes will suit his driving style better.

"We all have the same tyres. Up until last season a track could favour Michelin, while another Bridgestone. The difference will be in the traction, the aerodynamics and the strategy. I think my driving style will give me an advantage."