From Ferrari

The first day of testing at the Catalan circuit of Montmelò near Barcelona saw MotoGP star rider Valentino Rossi behind the wheel of a F2008.

The car, used by Ferrari to win the Constructors' Title in 2008, can now be used after the end of a two-year embargo – due to new technology protection – and is now part of the atelier managed by Maranello's F1 Clienti department, set up for the nine-times MotoGP world champion for his sixth time behind the wheel of a Ferrari Formula 1 single-seater.

Rossi drove more than 300 kilometres on Wednesday, or 68 laps, expressing satisfaction after a briefing with the technicians: “I'm happy. It was a good test, although it was wet in the morning and without grip I had some problems. Fortunately the dried off in the afternoon, I could use the slicks and improve my lap times.”

The fastest lap was driven in 1.25.200.

The activities will end on Friday, January 22, as regular Ferrari driver Felipe Massa will take over the driving duties.

"As the car and the track were available I thought it would be helpful to go onto the track for a day to continue gaining confidence with the Formula 1," Felipe said.

"After the days in Fiorano and Mugello this will be a nice opportunity to get back driving on such an interesting and challenging track."

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Photo Credit : WRI2