Ferrari's new 248 F1 - not the end of an era says di Montezemolo

Testing until the start of the season

The detailed test programme was shown to the press pack – Barcelona, Valencia, Bahrain and Jerez before the start of the season. These tests will see the 248 on track, a car that now only exists as a single example, flanking last year's model. Todt had some words of praise for Ferrari's new driver, Felipe Massa. It was revealed that he was a very fast learner, a humble person and who displayed a good work ethic in a team. Massa should be completely at ease with the squad in a short space of time. As to Valentino Rossi testing the new car at Valencia, Todt stated, “this may be possible, but not 100% definite."

New number two driver, Felipe Massa

The first of the drivers to take the microphone was the latest to join the team, Brazilian Felipe Massa. Naturally, he declared that he was enthusiastic at making his debut with the Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro during such a prestigious occasion as the presentation of the new single seater.

In response to questions about his first impressions of the 248 F1, Massa revealed, "the freezing temperatures over the past few days have made it impossible to effect real and proper tests. I have to say though, that the car is well balanced. The new engine has already proved to be particularly reliable and is surprisingly high performing.”

As to the aims for the upcoming season, Massa wants to claim his first podium place and maybe even a victory. He is keeping his feet firmly on the ground, however, and has not forgotten that the main objective is to collect as many points as possible for the team. The sensation of heading in the right direction, for the Brazilian, is testimony to the fact that, despite the pressure of his status as the newcomer, Felipe is extremely calm. He is also motivated and confident of doing well in a team that he knows well having been a test driver since 2001. The driver himself has underlined how this experience has been fundamental in his professional growth.

Official test driver, Luca Badoer

There has been a great deal of speculation about the future of Luca Badoer who went on to assure the gathered press that he would be continuing in his role as an official Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro test driver, rather than leaving to take up a place as an official driver in another team.

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