Great to be back on a real track - Gené

After numerous laps driven wit the simulator and on the Vairano straight for tests of the aero package, Marc Gené is back behind the wheel of a Formula 1 single-seater on areal race track. Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro's official test driver, who was also engaged in other things over the last year [Peugeot driver in the prototype category and Formula 1 commentator on Sky Italia] was happy about the opportunity to drive on his home track.

Gené said: "It's great to taste the Ferrari again on this track. I've worked a lot with this car at Vairano, but a test like this is something completely different. I don't have a huge mileage, because we have to keep in mind that we're close to the 30,000 km limit we can use in 2008; but it's great to be here."

The car is not exactly the same as during the tests of the aero package: "True, we got rid of as many things as possible, to try to create the downforce we'll have the next season. But the main thing is the slicks. I couldn't directly compare them, but the first feeling is that the grip delivered by the new tyres compensates the lower downforce. Personally I'm working with the car's set up, trying to understand the handling with the new tyres. Luca is working on the reliability, especially of the engine, because in the next season it has to live 50% longer."