Grapevine: Alesi set for First DTM Test Next Week

Frenchman Jean Alesi revealed today that he is scheduled to test for the first time a DTM (German Touring Cars) car next week.

Alesi, who retired this month from Formula One after 201 Grand Prix starts, told Italian newspaper Le Gazzetta dello Sport that a testing session was arranged for him on November 7th.

"I am going to test a DTM car to see how it feels," Alesi said. "I do not have any plans to retire completely, my goal is to race."

Alesi also said the chance came from Mercedes sporting director, who arranged the session for Alesi. "I have to thank Norbert for giving me this opportunity," Alesi said.

Alesi was additionally asked if he would consider driving for Ferrari again, perhaps with their Maserati brand, which is expected to return to racing in the future. The Frenchman said he won't rule out the possibility, but added that "since they don't know their plans themselves, there's no point discussing it now. We will have to wait and see first what they decide to do."

Ferrari's president Luca di Montezemolo said last month that Maserati will eventually return to racing, stating his company was still looking at the possible future options, starting from 2003. However, di Montezemolo emphasised the historic brand will not return to Formula One. "We already have one brand in F1 - Ferrari. That's enough," he said.