FEBRUARY 13, 2001

Ferrari tester back in action

FERRARI test driver Luca Badoer returned to the car on Tuesday after last month's massive testing accident as Ferrari undertook a twin-track test program.

The Italian driver, whose Ferrari flipped over a tire wall in January's crash, admitted he is not yet back to maximum strength.

"I am not yet completely fit," he revealed. "I have a bit of pain and I need to re-build my muscle weight. I am just concentrating on getting back to being 100% again."

Badoer was in an F2000, concentrating on electronics testing at Fiorano, and put in a best time of one minute and 01.404 seconds.

Meanwhile, Rubens Barrichello spent the day at Mugello putting the F2001 through its paces. He managed 65 laps and set a best time of one minute and 24.627 seconds.

The Brazilian now hands the F2001 over to Michael Schumacher, who will put the car back on track at the Tuscany venue on Friday.