Fisichella Pleased with Points Finish

Sauber driver Giancarlo Fisichella was pleased with the point scored at his home Italian Grand Prix at the Monza circuit.

Fisichella finished in eighth position to score points for the third race in succession and for the fourth time in five Grands Prix. The Italian was satisfied with the result, but admitted that he was expecting more following a chaotic first lap.

"A point was what I expected, but also not what I expected, given the unusual circumstances at the beginning of the race," said Fisichella. "I was always confident overall that we could score, but to begin with I lost vital time through the combination of low downforce, a high fuel load and dry tyres.

"But once the track began to dry I felt more confident and was able to start pushing hard and have a very good race. At the end I saw Pizzonia and Coulthard collide and hoped momentarily that I might get even more, but I am satisfied with a point for eighth today."

Fisichella's teammate Felipe Massa finished down in 12th position after he was forced to pit for repairs following an accident with Jordan's Nick Heidfeld in the early part of the event.

"I had a good start and I think it was the correct decision to go for intermediate tyres on my car," said Massa. "I made up a lot of positions and got as high as sixth at one stage. Once I had switched to dry tyres I got on to a damp patch and slid into the back of Nick Heidfeld.

"That was annoying because I wasn't even trying to pass him, and it cost me my front wing. Overall, however, the car was very quick and I could match the pace of the leaders. Without my problem I'm sure I could have scored more points this afternoon."