MotoReview

The MotoGP champ was testing in an F2004, as opposed to the latest F1 machinery. Although the general rule of thumb across motorsport is that 'newer = faster', the 2006 cars are in fact slower than the car Rossi tested in, as a result of a V10 to V8 rule change for this season.

Rossi has already been confirmed for further F1 tests in the coming months, giving real ammunition to the argument that he is heading for a Formula One career in the future.

Speaking to the Ferrari website, Rossi said "It has been a very interesting test, considering how it was the first time I lapped in a Formula One car along with other drivers. I have to say I felt at ease and had no particular problems. Maybe I need a little more experience of driving on a wet track."

In what was probably an effort to calm the growing interest in his possible F1 career Rossi said, "I did not come here to show anything to anybody but simply to broaden my understanding of a Formula One car and I thank Ferrari for continuing to give me this opportunity. In the next few months there will be more tests but now I go back to motorcycling, which is foremost in my thoughts."

Michael Schumacher, whom Rossi has now tested alongside on several occasions, believes Rossi does have what it takes to make the switch to four wheels.

"Absolutely, it's completely possible for him. He has enough talent to get there. I would even say that it is easier to go from bikes to cars than the other way round. And when, like him, you have this special feeling on two wheels, you can use it perfectly on four wheels."

For an in-depth analysis of Rossi's Valencia test from the point of view of those properly in the know about F1, see this article on GrandPrix.com. 

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