Fisichella says sixth feels like a podium

The Renault driver had struggled for pace for most of the weekend, missing the cut to go into the top ten shootout in qualifying.

Fisichella recovered from that and went on to finish in a distant sixth place, over a minute behind race winner Fernando Alonso.
 
The Roman admitted the result felt like a podium finish, because that was the best Renault could have hoped for.

"A really tough race for me because I haven't felt well for several days and I've been taking medications, so I was suffering," the Italian told RAI. "Luckily I have a good physical preparation which allowed me to be consistent and perfect in the race without making any mistakes.

"I'm happy of my race today because it's like getting on the podium. It was the maximum we could do. I had a great, aggressive start when overtaking cars then was the only hope of getting points today. I think I overtook four cars. After that the car was better in race pace, it was more consistent.

"Now we wait for a better car from the team in order to fight for the top positions."

Teammate Heikki Kovalainen, meanwhile, scored his maiden Formula One point after coming home in eighth position.

The Finn, who endured a torrid debut in Australia, was happy with the result.

"This was my first F1 point, so it's a nice feeling after such a tough race," said the Finn. "I attacked every lap today, just pushing as hard as possible to try and make up positions.

"The balance was similar to qualifying, and a little unpredictable in the high speed corners which meant I had some moments in turn 6, but that happens when you are on the limit.

"For me, the race was a definite step forward compared to Melbourne, and our competitiveness was better than we showed in qualifying. I think we are moving in the right direction, and I know the team will stay strong and keep their heads up, even though we are not winning at the moment. Hopefully we can take another step in Bahrain next weekend.