Fisichella joins Sauber

Fisichella was increasingly unhappy at Jordan Driver profile: Giancarlo Fisichella

Italy's Giancarlo Fisichella will leave Jordan at the end of the season after signing a two-year contract with Sauber.

The 30-year-old, who won his first grand prix at Brazil this year, has endured a miserable season at Jordan and will join his fourth Formula One team of his career.

Fisichella willlink up with the Swiss team following recent talks with boss Peter Sauber.

"I met with Peter and technical director Willy Rampf and immediately had a positive feeling," said Fisichella.

"The new wind tunnel, in particular, highly impressed me. It proves the team has a lot of potential and the will to be successful. I'm looking forward to my new challenge."

I consider him one of the best drivers in Formula One Peter Sauber

A delighted Sauber stated: "I've been watching Giancarlo's career for years and consider him one of the best drivers in Formula One.

"He's not only quick, but a strong fighter as well who never gives up and makes the best of any situation.

"We've been in contact with Giancarlo before and I'm very happy that, now, we've been able to sign him for our team."

With both current Sauber drivers Nick Heidfeld and Heinz-Harald Frentzen rumoured to be on their way this season, the team are understood to be looking at recruiting Felipe Massa, who drove for them last year.

Fisichella's team-mate Ralph Firman crashed heavily in practice on Saturday to further compound Jordan's woes.