Formula One news

Fisichella: Ferrari and McLaren ahead

Although Giancarlo Fisichella says the Renault team has made good progress at this week's test at Bahrain, he still feels that the team is some way off being on a par with the pacesetters. The pace of both Renault drivers Fisichella and Heikki Kovalainen steadily improved over the three days of testing this week and both drivers ended up second and third fastest respectively on Thursday, coming within half a second of Felipe Massa's dominant Ferrari.

"Things went pretty well for us this week," said the Italian.

"From the first day on Tuesday to the final day, we made some good progress with the car, and that's a positive sign. There was a big step forward with the balance and set-up, and I think we look more competitive now.

"For sure, we are still behind Ferrari in particular, they looked very strong this week. McLaren are a little bit ahead too, and BMW are competitive as well, but I think we have made a good step forward."

The Renault team has both the constructors' and drivers' championships to defend in 2007 yet rather than targeting race wins it seems Fisichella is being more cautious.

"I think we have to aim to be on the podium. The reliability of our package is very good at the moment, and that can be a big asset in the opening races. The team is hungry, and ready to go. Everybody is looking forward to seeing what we can do," he added.

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