Fisichella Not Worried about Future

On the back of his last-lap defeat in the Japanese Grand Prix, speculation in the Shanghai paddock suggested that the Italian could be sold to the new BMW team for 2006, with GP2 front-runner Heikki Kovalainen becoming Renault's second driver.

But on the back of his strong run in China, and continued support from team chiefs about his performances this year, Fisichella has made it clear that he is not concerned that his place at Renault is in doubt.

When asked after the China race about whether the rumours about his future should be ignored, Fisichella said: "You can think whatever you want, but if my boss defends me the way he's been doing, because he knows the quality of the work I've done all season, I've got to keep cool."

Fisichella has had the worst of the team's luck this year - suffering the brunt of reliability problems at the start of the season as Alonso built up his World Championship lead.

But after refusing to criticise the team for his misfortune this year, Fisichella earned respect within the outfit for his approach.

"It's clear lady luck was not on my side on most of the races, but I never shot at the team," he added. "In fact, I always thank them for their efforts, because I knew they were doing their best to help me get back to the front.

"Good teams are not made in a day, it's necessary time to put everything together and make the most out of every piece of the puzzle."

Kovalainen is one of Briatore's young drivers and had been linked with a Renault test deal before the Chinese GP rumours.   

There is a chance that the Finn could get the BMW drive, however, with Jacques Villeneuve's future at the team still not guaranteed even though he has a contract for next season.