Ferrari to Run Comparative Test at Imola

The Ferrari team will run a series of comparative tests with their 2002 and 2003 cars at the Imola circuit later this month, Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport has reported.

Ferrari general manager Jean Todt said on Friday, at the launch of the new F2003-GA, that the World Champions plan to use their F2002 car in the opening races of the new season while the new car undergoes tests.

Todt said their intention was to debut the F2003-GA at the San Marino Grand Prix, the fourth round of the Championship, on April 20.

"It is Ferrari's intention to start with the 2002 car until after the first few races, probably at Imola, depending on tests and results," said Todt.

Both the old F2002 and the new F2003-GA will be tested at the Imola circuit on February 17-19 to compare their performance. The F2003-GA will make its track debut next week at the Fiorano circuit.

The Sauber team, who use Ferrari engines, will also be present at the Imola test.