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Fisichella Overwhelmed by Ferrari Dream Come True

The Italian tifosi will finally get to cheer for one of their own during their home Grand Prix at Monza, now that Ferrari have confirmed Giancarlo Fisichella will join Kimi Raikkonen in their lineup for the remainder of the season. Of course, the F1 veteran will replace another Italian in the F60 cockpit – Luca Badoer – but the 38-year old would hardly qualify for a solid F1 performance even with the performing car provided by the prancing horse.

That being said, Fisichella will finally get to compete for Ferrari after 14 years of F1 racing. It was a decade and a half ago that the F1 veteran last tested (not raced) a Ferrari machinery, and the prospect of challenging for race wins in the now-performing F60 feels like “seventh heaven” to Fisico. After getting the green light from Vijay Mallya to join Ferrari – after bringing the Silverstone based team its first pole position in F1, as well as first ever podium/points – Fisichella can't wait to take the Ferrari F60 to the track.

I still can't believe it - that the dream of my life comes true, and I want to thank Ferrari and Chairman Luca di Montezemolo. Over the last week some really incredible things happened to me: the pole position and then second place at Spa and now I'm called by Ferrari to race the last five races of the season for them,” said an enthusiastic Fisichella for Ferrari's official site.

Team principal Stefano Domenicali revealed the reasons why Ferrari have chosen Fisichella for the remainder of the 2009 season, naming experience as one of his biggest assets for the Maranello team. Furthermore, Domenicali revealed Fisico will become test/reserve driver for Ferrari in 2010.

We chose Giancarlo, because we think that he can make a significant contribution in terms of points during the finale of this uncertain season. Furthermore we considered what could be his role inside the team in the near future, also taking this year's experiences into account. He will be the reserve driver in 2010,” added Domenicali.

The Italian boss also thanked Mallya for releasing Fisichella of his contract and allowing him to join the Scuderia. The Indian billionaire is now to name a replacement for Fisico in the next few days.

I want to thank Vijay Mallya and Force India F1 for giving Giancarlo the possibility to cancel his contract in such a happy moment for the team, allowing him to crown his dream as a driver,” concluded Domenicali.
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