UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > Fisi insists 2009 contract assured

Italian win race in 2009

Nov.28 (GMM) Giancarlo Fisichella has reiterated his belief that he will line up in his Force India as scheduled on the 2009 grid.

Prior to the 2008 season, the Roman penned a two-year contract, but the team's recent McLaren-Mercedes deal sparked speculation that his and Adrian Sutil's deals may no longer be secure.

McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa tested the VJM01 single seater at Barcelona recently, and it is also strongly rumoured that the McLaren-Mercedes backed Paul di Resta has a chance of a 2009 seat.

But Fisichella, 35, told F1's official website that he remains comfortable with his position.

"I originally signed a two year contract which was reviewed in September to incorporate the McLaren deal.

"In a few words, the team offered me a better car and a different package. I accepted their proposal and both sides signed the new document between Singapore and China," he said.

Fisichella also revealed that he has known since September that de la Rosa would probably test the Force India car after the season.

"As for the rest -- I am not really interested in F1 gossip," he said, denying his is even worried about the fact that the Vijay Mallya-led team is yet to issue a formal statement about its 2009 lineup.

Fisichella added: "The lineup has been announced in China in October by Vijay, and I trust people who trust me."

Written: Fri, 28 Nov 2008 12:08:36