Air temperatures are expected to hit 35 degrees centigrade for the Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang this weekend, pushing both car and driver to the limit.

Fisichella knows what it takes to get through the race as he won only the third race of his 179-grand prix career at the circuit last year in his Renault after qualifying on pole position.

"Without a doubt, this is the toughest race of the season - not just physically, but mentally too," said the Italian.

"The high temperatures and humidity make things very tough for the drivers and the cars too."

"For me personally, though, there are very good memories from my win last year, and I am prepared for the race this time round."

"I trained hard over the winter, I am in peak condition and ready to go," he said.

Fisichella finished fifth in the season opener in Australia although the Ferraris and McLarens seemed a cut above the Renault team.

The 34-year-old is hopeful the team has done enough since the Melbourne race to close the gap on the leading duo.

"That was a tough race for me. We weren't on the pace of the leaders," said Fisichella.

"We knew beforehand that we weren't fast enough, but the first race gave us a clearer picture of where we stand, and showed us the areas we need to focus on."

Sportal