Beaming Giancarlo Fisichella told today how he had abandoned all hope of driving for Ferrari - but is now “full of happiness and pride” after being called up by the Italian giants.
The veteran racer will replace flop substitute Luca Badoer in his home race at Monza on Sunday.
And as he was officially unveiled as a Ferrari driver, he grinned from ear to ear as he said: “I began my career with Minardi in 1996. And after nearly 14 years and at the age of 36 I had pretty much given up hope of driving a Ferrari.
“But instead I will be racing one at Monza! So I’m filled with happiness and pride now.
“Ferrari’s choice fills me with joy and I’ll try to give my all to repay them.
“Driving a Ferrari at Monza will be incredible. I will have much pressure but I will certainly give it a good go.
“It will be a mind-boggling weekend and I can’t wait to begin.” The Sun
Giancarlo Fisichella made it clear that he has no plan to become a full-time replacement for injured driver Felipe Massa at Ferrari.
“I spoke with Massa by phone and he told me he’s very happy for me and that I was the right choice,” Fisichella said Monday during his introduction as a Ferrari driver for the final five races of the Formula One season.
“I responded that I’m very sorry about what happened to him and told him to get better soon. ‘Whenever you want your car come and take it because this is yours. I just hope I can do what you would have done,’” Fisichella recounted.
Massa is not expected to return until next season after an accident almost cost him his life at the Hungarian GP. The Associated Press
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