Fisichella chasing his first win

Giancarlo Fisichella has been in Formula One since 1996 and is still looking for that elusive first victory. The Italian debuted with Minardi before moving to Jordan for a year and spent the last four years with Benetton. He has visited the podium on several occasions but has yet to step up to the top -- but this year could be the year that changes that according to him. Settling in on his return to Jordan for 2002, he knows it won't be easy but he feels ready to take on the challenge.

"I expect a lot (from 2002)" he said. "I know it won't be easy because there are some very strong teams in front of us, and we've had some problems in winter tests. But my Jordan car is a good car, and the engine only needs developments. My objective is definitely to win a Grand Prix, my first victory in F1. I think that, these years, I've shown that I can be fast even during difficult times. I feel ready both mentally and physically: if the car is there, I won't be afraid of anything."

Fisichella had a very poor year with Benetton in 2001, struggling with a car that was off the pace but managing to wring results out of it that many thought were impossible. He has long been considered a potential winner that has never really had the right equipment to prove his worth. With Jordan and the new Honda engine he feels that although there is room for improvement, the chance for success is there.

"Honda is a prestigious manufacturer, they have always achieved at commendable levels in F1, and now they are betting a lot on this new, wider V-angled engine. It will need a few more developments, but we are optimistic."