Fisichella Welcomes Unexpected Points

Italian Giancarlo Fisichella was happy after finishing in the points for the second time this season at today's United States Grand Prix.

The Jordan driver, who finished seventh today, had not scored a point since he won the Brazilian Grand Prix back in April.

"A good result. We didn't expect to score points so it's great considering our pace and our grid position," said the Italian, who had started the race from 17th place. "We did very well, despite some problems in both pit stops. Without those there was definitely the possibility to finish sixth."

Fisichella's teammate Ralph Firman, racing for the first time since the German Grand Prix, failed to finish after damaging his car on lap 46.

"The conditions were wet and slippery and unfortunately at the beginning I touched with another car and lost my front wing," said Firman. "Later I had to change to wet then dry tyres and when I wanted to pit for wets again Giancarlo was going into the box so I had to do another lap and come back.

"I retired when I touched one of those plastic kerbs and the car spun round. We're not used to racing with them but it was my mistake. All round it's been a tough day."