Jenson Button arrived at Benetton as the Italian's team-mate after an impressive debut season at Williams, and Fisichella was aware that if the Englishman beat him, his career in top teams was as good as over.

But Fisichella was superb all season, humiliating Button, and outqualifying him 13 to four. And on at least two of the times Button was ahead, it was because of problems for the Italian.

What this serves to say, of course, is that Fisichella was one of the most under-rated drivers in F1.

His team boss, Flavio Briatore, claimed that Fisichella does not always try as hard as he might - and Briatore was not the only one. But the growing feeling now is that most of his apparent shortcomings were probably down to his equipment.

There is little doubt about Fisichella's ability. He has it in spades. He is quick, smooth and stylish - and that is not just a reference to his Italian good looks.

Fisichella is also one of the few Grand Prix drivers who shines in wet conditions, which is always a good sign.