Burti Leaves Ferrari to Return to Racing

Brazilian Luciano Burti announced today that he is to leave the Ferrari team to return to racing in 2003 despite having a contract with the Italian squad.

"I am grateful to Ferrari for the opportunity in 2002," said Burti. "It was a fantastic experience, and it gave me the condition to improve my technic, knowledge and speed. I had a deal with them for the 2003 season, but I decided to return to racing.

"Due to my good relationship with the team, they agreed to release me, and we will keep a close link for future opportunities with Ferrari and Maserati. I realized that I am ready to compete, and my aim for 2003 is to race in a competitive series, where I can win races and championships, which is my main motivation in motor racing."

Burti had joined World Champions Ferrari at the start of the 2002 season, becoming a test driver alongside Italian Luca Badoer. 27-year old Burti became Ferrari's test driver after a difficult first season in Formula One which saw him race for both Jaguar and Prost before he suffered severe concussion in the big accident in Belgium in September 2001.

The Brazilian said he would announce his plans for the 2003 season soon. His announcement clears the way for compatriot Felipe Massa, who has been in talks with Ferrari over a test driver seat after he lost out to Briton Ralph Firman for the remaining Jordan drive.