Fisichella: 'Nobody was stronger than Alonso and Schumacher'

Briatore a good manager, or the devil?

It has been 17 years since the last time an Italian won in Formula 1. For the passionate motorsport country, that's a major blow. Speaking to Italy's Corriere della Sera, Fisichella says he runs a junior programme to help young Italian racing talents get to the top. Still, he fears it will be some time before there is a new Italian F1 winner.

The interview looks back at that last Italian victory in 2006. Fisichella drove alongside Alonso at Renault, which was led by Flavio Briatore. When asked whether Briatore was a good manager, or just the devil, the Italian said, "Bit of both. He always got results in everything he did. He was just not forgiving. One mistake and you were out."

Long F1 career, but no F1 title

Did Briatore prefer Alonso? Fisichella: " It was mainly about Fernando. He was also his manager, but he liked me. There is always a number one and two driver, but that was acceptable at Renault." Fisichella continued, telling which drivers ultimately gave him the hardest time: "Michael Schumacher and Alonso stand head and shoulders above everyone else. Fernando is living his second childhood at 42 at Aston Martin. The car is good and he puts his whole life into it."

Fisichella is an extremely experienced driver with an incredible track record in F1. Except that the wins and pole positions are scarce. Also, the Italian never won a title. Fisichella: 'Whether I miss that F1 title? Yes, but I am at peace with it. Fourteen seasons, 231 GPs, three wins, nineteen podiums and four pole positions. Those are some of my statistics. I have contributed to two constructors' titles for Renault. I am honoured to have been a team player."