Formula 1 News

Fisichella: test and reserve driver at Ferrari in 2010 

Shortly after the announcement that Giancarlo Fisichella will drive Felipe Massa’s car starting from next week’s Italian Grand Prix and until the end of the 2009 season, Ferrari President Luca Cordero di Montezemolo explained why he chose the Italian veteran driver, also revealing that Fisico will be the team’s test and reserve driver in 2010.

“I chose Fisichella for several reasons, starting with the fact he deserves it, that he’s on great form and that he is an expert driver,” said Montezemolo. “On top of that, we all wanted to have an Italian driver in our car for Monza and lastly, because it takes the long term view, as he will be our third driver,” he added.

“It is an important moment, coming off the back of a great win with Kimi Raikkonen. We also have the good and important news that Felipe Massa is recovering well and will be more than ready for the first race of next season,” he continued.

“I wish to thank Luca Badoer who, once again has been so amenable towards Ferrari. Therefore, I look forward to Monza with confidence and especially with great pleasure at having Fisichella in the team.”