Barrichello Encouraged by F2005

Barrichello and teammate Michael Schumacher are getting behind the wheel of the car this week in order to assess if the new machine is ready to make its racing debut at the Bahrain Grand Prix next week. Barrichello took over today from Ferrari's tester Luca Badoer.

The Brazilian driver, who retired from the Malaysian Grand Prix last weekend, covered a total of 95 laps at Mugello, setting a best time of 1:21.435.

"There is always excitement on a day like this, when you get to drive for the first time a new car, especially if it is a Ferrari," said Barrichello at the end of the day. "The first impression is the one that counts and I'm very happy about the way I felt at the wheel of the F2005.

"It's certainly faster than the F2004M and it's a step forward in every area."

Tomorrow, World Champion Schumacher will test the F2005 for the first time at the Italian circuit.