Fernando Alonso will not participate in the opening pre-season test at the Jerez circuit between February 5th and 8th.
Ferrari have opted to run Felipe Massa on the opening three days before handing the car over to new test driver Pedro de la Rosa. The Spaniard joined the team earlier this month after the closure of HRT.
Alonso will not drive the 2013 Ferrari until the second test in Barcelona, where he will be behind the wheel for the first three days. Massa will take over for the final day.
The pair will share driving duties for the final four-day test with two apiece. The Brazilian will therefore get a days extra testing.
The Italian team say the move is to give Alonso longer to work on his physical condition, whilst avoiding the confused feedback by changing driver every day or every other day as is often the case.
Discussion about this post