Grapevine: Burti Gets Back Behind the Wheel

New Ferrari test driver Luciano Burti returned to the track this week for the first time since a dramatic accident at this year's Belgian Grand Prix.

Burti crashed head on into a tyre barrier at 165mph after a collision with Ulsterman Eddie Irvine in the race at Spa-Francorchamps last September, and missed the rest of the season as he recovered from his injuries.

The Brazilian, who recently signed a testing deal with Ferrari, completed a remarkable recovery when he drove a Formula Three car around the Autodromo Internacional de Brasilia.

"I decided to drive a Formula Three car in order to get ready for the 2002 season and to get used to a race car again," Burti said on his personal website.

"I had a need to drive fast again. My performance in Brasilia made me feel very well and happy, and I am sure that I will be able to contribute with Ferrari's development in 2002."

Burti will line up with Italian Luca Badoer as Ferrari up their testing programme in a bid to hold onto the coveted Formula One World Championship title.