Q & A with Giancarlo Fisichella

Giancarlo Fisichella: "It is a big satisfaction. I am really proud about that. 200 Grands Prix for a driver is a big number and to be in F1 so many times, it means I did well so far.

"To celebrate 200 races here in Monaco is a special event for me - it is a special circuit, so it is great. I am really looking forward to the rest of the weekend. I hope to do well and if we score points here, it is going to be like winning the race."

Q. If you look back over your years in F1, did you expect when you started that you would compete in 200 grands prix or more?

GF: "Absolutely not. I was just dreaming to be an F1 driver for a few years time, but not to score 200 grands prix."

Q. When you look back over your career, what has changed in F1?

GF: "Of course it changed a lot, especially the rules - the tyres, engines, chassis, and traction control being there and then not."

Q. When you started your F1 career you set your aims. Did you realise them?

GF: "Well, yes I reached nearly everything I dreamed of - but obviously to be world champion is the last one."

Q. You started in F1 with an Italian team. Would you like to end your career with an Italian team?

GF: "It would be nice - there are two Italian teams but obviously Ferrari are probably the greatest team in the world. For every driver it is a dream to be there, especially an Italian driver, but I don't know if I am in the plan for Ferrari - now I think it is too late."

Q. Do you feel like an old driver or a young one still?

GF: "For sure not old. I still feel young and happy to drive in F1. I enjoy myself and I love the sport - so I like to race a few more years. I don't feel old. I am really looking forward to Sunday, so we will see."

Q. What is your best memory of F1?

GF: "The best memory is when I drove an F1 car for the first time and my first grand prix. And when I won in Brazil, Australia and Malaysia."

Q. Do you feel your best is yet to come?

GF: "Maybe Saturday or Sunday here!"

Q. Do you think you can beat Rubes Barrichello's record for the most races competed in?

GF: "I don't know. It is too far away at the moment. We will see."

Q. Do you still feel that you want to keep racing for a long time to come?

GF: "Well yes, a few more years for sure. I still feel strong physically and mentally. But for sure we need to keep pushing, to improve and to grow up this year and especially next year."

Q. How do you cope with the new challenge of not driving for victories?

GF: "It is okay. There is a good atmosphere in the team, there is no pressure - and the team is really good. I feel comfortable. We need to push a little bit more, but we are going in the right direction."