Badoer rejects Ferrari decision

Ferrari's Italian test driver, who drives for Italy's other F1 team Minardi, had expected to be promoted when the double champion broke his leg in two places at the British Grand Prix.

'I'm very disappointed,' he said. 'I do not agree with it because I think I was the right person. I'm under contract for that job, I am their test driver.'

Ferrari boss Jean Todt said the decision had come down to the two drivers but had chosen the Finn because of the pressure in Italy on the team involved in replacing the world's top driver with an Italian.

'They said it would be too much pressure on me and everyone in the team. I do not agree,' added Badoer.

'I have a very strong character and mind. I know I could have coped with the pressure but I have to accept the decision. Now I just have to forget it,' he said.

'Of course I'm upset but my relationship with the team is like before. I'm a professional and next week I will test the Ferrari as well as I always do.'

Just two weeks ago Badoer said his testing duties for Italy's top team came before his job as a Minardi Grand Prix driver - but having missed out on his big break both now look in jeopardy when the season finishes.