Barrichello continues Fiorano testing

The Brazilian, who was training in the gym, was asked to take over after Schumacher was forced to cut his test in the new Ferrari challenger short - due to a stiff neck.

The double world champion ran for only five laps at Fiorano before abandoning the session.

However his time of 1.01.26 was just one second off the track record for last year's F399 car.

"It's a real shame I had to stop because the car felt really good," said the German.

"Anyway, I'm very optimistic given the time I managed in just a few laps."

Barrichello completed 24 laps during his stint, putting in a fastest time of 1.01.311.

"I had a very favourable impression of the new car which is very balanced," Barrichello said afterwards.

"The car seemed strong. There was not enough time to complete all the adjustments to the driving position to suit me and the brake pedal was a bit far away.

"I am equally delighted with my first encounter with the car.

"I turned up this morning to watch Michael carry out the development work. I was training in the gym when I was surprised to be called in to drive because of Michael's problem."