Ferrari supersub Luca Badoer is anticipating his first F1 race in ten years will be like a ”test session.” The Italian made the extraordinary claim in an interview with the Ferrari website, but insists he is nevertheless motivated to do well at the Valencia track.
“I am very motivated to make the most of this opportunity, even if I know I am facing a tough challenge. It will effectively be a test session for me, but I will be trying my best to secure a good result,” said the 38-year-old.
Badoer also paid tribute to the man he is replacing, Felipe Massa, and the man who should have replaced him, Michael Schumacher. Badoer was very much a second choice for the seat, but is determined to repay the faith shown in him by the Ferrari hierarchy.
“My first thoughts when I take to the track will be for Felipe, because I got a real fright when I saw his accident,” he said. “I am delighted that he is making a good recovery and I hope he will be back racing as soon as possible. I have to add that I am also thinking of Michael, because having trained with him over the last few weeks, I know how much he wanted to make this comeback and how much effort he was putting into his preparation. Even though his decision has provided me with this great opportunity…I feel sorry for him, because not only are we friends but I am also an admirer of his.”
Badoer’s arrival will put pressure on de facto team leader Kimi Raikkonen, who will be expected comprehensively to outperform his new team-mate. With speculation mounting concerning Raikkonen’s future – in particular a possible drive in the World Rally Championship – Valencia will be a key weekend for the Finn.
