Valentino Rossi has returned to Formula One testing for the first time since 2008, after commencing the first of two days of running in a Ferrari at Catalunya.
The reigning Moto GP champion was awarded the test after winning his ninth world motorcycling title for the FIAT Yamaha team.
Both parties have stressed that the two day test is not a sign that Rossi is considering making a switch to Formula One, and that it is for his own entertainment.
To comply with the current restriction on testing, Rossi drove a 2008-spec car with GP2 tyres, ran by Ferrari’s Clienti department.
The Italian prepared for the test by visiting the Ferrari factory in Marnello where he sampled the team’s latest simulator.
