Rossi says future F1 switch unlikely

Earlier this week, Rossi signed up for another year at the Yamaha team, turning his back on a possible switch to F1 with Ferrari.

The Italian said he considered the possibility of switching to four wheels very seriously, but admitted a test alongside other F1 drivers at Valencia made him realise he may not have had the chance to fight at the top.

His new deal with Yamaha is only for one year, however, which has led to speculation that he could still make the switch to car racing.

And although he admitted to that possibility, Rossi said racing in F1 was unlikely.

"I had the chance to drive the best racecar in the world, the best machine in Formula 1 and understand my potential," Rossi told a news conference at Mugello on Thursday. "Bikes are better for me to be at the top level.

"After the test here in November I really thought about going [to F1]," he added. "I had a great test in Fiorano, about a second off the lap record, and that made the decision difficult.

"Then I went to Valencia and drove alongside the other drivers, experiencing the atmosphere and the media pressure, and then I decided.

"I saw myself in the pit box with [Michael] Schumacher and there and then I understood the difference between him and me. I have always been passionate about cars, and I can go fast with them, but it wouldn't have been easy to win.

"In the future I am sure that I will do car racing, but maybe not Formula 1."