Giuliano Alesi has departed Ferrari’s Driver Academy, ending his five-year stint with the marque, and is set to compete in Japan this year.
Alesi, son of 1995 Canadian Grand Prix winner and ex-Ferrari racer Jean, joined Ferrari’s scheme prior to graduating to the GP3 Series in 2016.
Alesi took four victories, and a best of fifth in the standings, and stepped up to Formula 2 for 2019, taking a highest race finish of fifth.
The Frenchman got behind the wheel of Ferrari’s 2018-spec SF71H on Monday at Fiorano as part of the squad’s five-day private test with a roster of drivers.
Ferrari confirmed afterwards that Alesi will not continue with the scheme into 2021 and is instead set to continue his career in Japanese single-seater competition.
“I’d like to thank Ferrari and the FDA for this fantastic opportunity,” said Alesi, who sported #28 on his car, mirroring his father’s race number from 1991.
“To be able to get in the cockpit of the SF71H was incredibly exciting as was driving the car on track with my father watching and sporting the same race number he used.
“In terms of handling, the car is not too difficult to drive, but the power was surprising and never seems to end. The immediacy and efficiency of the braking is also impressive.
“This test was the best way possible for me to bid farewell to Ferrari. Now a new adventure awaits me in Asia and I can’t wait for it to start.”
