• Ferrari news

Testing chance surprises de la Rosa

ESPN Staff
January 29, 2013 « Hamilton wants Mercedes progress in 2013 | Webber dismisses Marko criticism »
Pedro de la Rosa will drive the new Ferrari at Jerez on February 8 © Ferrari
Enlarge
Related Links

Pedro de la Rosa admits he had not expected to be able to test the new Ferrari this pre-season.

Having been announced as a development driver for Ferrari - primarily to help with the team's simulator work - de la Rosa will also drive during the first pre-season test at Jerez as Fernando Alonso opts not to run. Felipe Massa will run on the opening three days before de la Rosa takes over on the final day, and he described the chance as "a unique opportunity".

"I've seen the new car in the factory, as it is being prepared for the first test," de la Rosa told the official Ferrari website. "I am very happy to be able to test it and honestly I had not expected that. It's a unique opportunity to begin to understand how the car works and how I can help with the work in the simulator."

De la Rosa also spoke of his pride at joining Ferrari, saying he expects to learn a lot during his time at the team.

"I am proud and very happy, mainly because Ferrari is more than just a Formula 1 team. I'm starting a new phase of my life: for a driver it's important to work with the big teams, especially because you can learn from the best engineers and professionals in this sport. I am proud that Ferrari had faith in me, especially as it means I will be able to help a Spanish champion, in the shape of Fernando Alonso."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
ESPN Staff Close