Rotation-aligned coupling in 61Fe

New levels have been established above the 861-keV, 9/2{sup +} isomeric state in {sup 61}Fe. The observations can be reproduced satisfactorily by shell model calculations, but only after a significant lowering of the {nu}g{sub 9/2} single-particle energy with respect to the value determined empirically from levels outside a {sup 48}Ca core. The results are also described well within the scope of the particle-triaxial-rotor model assuming a deformation {beta}{sub 2} {approx} 0.24. The present findings, together with the recently measured magnetic and quadrupole moments of this state, point toward a structure possibly associated with a prolate shape.