Fisichella voted Driver's Driver

Giancarlo Fisichella was awarded the first Driver's Driver accolade at the F1 Awards last night, nominated by the drivers and test drivers of 2002. The 2003 Grand Prix Party, which hosted the Awards, was held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, UK, in aid of Sid Watkins' Brain and Spine Foundation.

The Driver's Driver award is a new category; Fisichella has long been considered one of the most under-rated drivers in the sport and evidently his peers recognise his talents. Former commentator and F1 favourite Murray Walker said: "Giancarlo is one of the top three and I would say even top two drivers these days."

The Italian is aiming for a competitive season with Jordan this year but hopes for an opportunity with a bigger team in the future.

"The car looks good and the target for me is to win my first race in Formula One and be really competitive," he said. "If the Jordan is very competitive this year then I have one more year with Jordan. "But obviously if I have the opportunity to drive for one of the best teams like Ferrari, McLaren or Williams then it would be a good chance."

Michael Schumacher won the Best Driver category and Ferrari the Best Team for their performances in 2002. McLaren boss Ron Dennis picked up the Lifetime Achievement award and Australian Mark Webber was nominated Best Newcomer. Race Director Charlie Whiting collected the Outstanding Contribution award for his services to F1.

People aside, the Special Safety Award went to the HANS Device, which was collected by CART's chief orthopedic consultant Dr Terry Trammell. Albert Park in Melbourne was voted the best circuit, the award collected by Minardi boss Paul Stoddart.

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