In line with expectation, the Sauber Petronas team revealed after qualifying🐈 in Hungary that it had signed Giancarlo Fisichella as its lead driver from the 2004 Formula One season.

The 30-year old Italian was rumoured to have been walking around with a Swiss contract in his briefcase for sometime, having first revealed that he was contemplating a move to Sauber ahead of the British Grand Prix,ཧ and has now revealed a two-year deal with the Hinwil-based operation.

"I've been watching Giancarlo's career for years and consider him one of the best drivers in Formula One," an enthusiastic Peter S⛦auber said of the signing, "He's not only quick, but a strong fighter as well, one 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, wᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ𒀱ᩚᩚᩚe've been able to sign him for our team."

Fisichella, too, appeared optim🔴istic about his future, ꦐhaving decided to end his reunion with the Jordan team after one fraught season.

"In mid-August, I met with Peter Sauber and technical director Willy Rampf in Hinwil, and immediately had a positive feeling," the Brazilia𝕴n GP winner said, "The new wind tunnel, in particular, highly impressed me. It proves that the team has a lot of potential and the will to be successful. I'm looking forward to my new ch😼allenge."

Fisichella entered Formula One in 1996 and has since participated in 119 races, but only broke hi🌜s win duck at Interlagos in April of this year. F1 insiders believe that the Italian will be partnered by Ferrari test driver - and former Sauber pilot - Felipe Massa next season, in what could be a shootout to replace⛄ Rubens Barrichello in the Ferrari squad for 2005.