Ecclestone doubts Rossi will switch to F1

Although Ecclestone is sure that Rossi joining F1 would be great for the sport, he believes that ultimately Ferrari may not be able to offer the financial rewards that he is currently getting in motorcycle racing.

"Yeah, if Valentino can get the job done and make it into Formula One, then it's a good thing for everyone concerned, and good for F1," said Ecclestone.

"But we've not spoken lately so I don't know what he wants to do, really. Whether he's happy just messing around on four wheels or wants to take it further I don't know.

"But I understand that it might be a bit difficult for him to leave such a lucrative contract as he is currently in."

Ecclestone's comments come amid reports that Ferrari have demanded an answer from Rossi in the next few months about whether or not he wants to join them in 2007.

Sources close to Valentino Rossi were quoted in this week's Motorcycle News as saying that Ferrari want a decision soon so they can plan for their future.

A close friend of Rossi told the newspaper: "Valentino is now really close to moving to F1.

"Ferrari are pushing harder than ever to get him into their car in 2007. They have told him they need an answer in the next two or three months, but his mind may be made up earlier.

"This is a dangerous time for motorcycling fans because you can see that now he is thinking about moving to F1 more seriously than ever."