Fisichella's future has looked uncertain, with Alonso clearly in a different league.

"It was very important for me to know my future as soon as possible in the season," said Fisichella on Thursday.

"I am delighted to be staying at Renault next year, and to have the opportunity to see my hard work with the team over the past two seasons come to fruition.

"This clear vision for the future means I can focus 100 percent on the job at hand: retaining the constructors' championship with Renault in 2006 and finishing as high as possible in the drivers' standings."

Italy has not had a Formula One world champion since Alberto Ascari in 1953. By staying on at Renault, possibly as lead driver next year, Fisichella would have his best shot yet at ending that long drought.