DECEMBER 18, 2000

Fisichella operation successful

BENETTON driver Giancarlo Fisichella successfully underwent an operation on his right knee in a Rome hospital today (Monday).

BENETTON driver Giancarlo Fisichella successfully underwent an operation on his right knee in a Rome hospital today (Monday).

Fisichella, who is thought to have damaged the joint in an accident during testing at Monza in September, underwent specialist arthroscopy surgery for a tibial micro-fracture in a one-hour operation at the Valle Giulia clinic.

The operation, carried out by Professor Giancarlo Puddu, went well according to the clinic.

On Friday, Fisichella will undergo a post-operation check-up and will then begin a muscle rehabilitation program under the supervision of Professor Puddu and the Benetton team physiotherapist.

Fisichella is expected to resume his normal training activities at the start of January at Benetton's pre-season training camp in Lanzarote, before getting back into the cockpit shortly after.