Rossi to stay at Yamaha

The 26-year-old, who tested for Ferrari last year, drove last season's model, the F2004, in an extended test at the team's private Fiorano circuit.

He completed 80 laps with a best time of 59.21 - three seconds slower than Michael Schumacher's track record.

"They were two intense and interesting days," he said.

"I turned a lot of kilometres and began to understand how the car works."

Rossi requested the session, which was watched by Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo

The four-time MotoGP champion, who extended his contract with Yamaha on Tuesday, first tested a Ferrari in April 2004 and has also raced on four wheels in some rally races.

In his free time, Valentino can do what he wants Yamaha team boss Davide Brivio

There has long been speculation that he could eventually abandon bikes for a move into F1 but Rossi has recently played down that possibility.

"Rossi has a standing offer from Ferrari. He is welcome to come test whenever he wants," said a Ferrari statement.

"Apparently he wanted some more testing to see how he does in an F1 car."

British driver John Surtees made the move from two wheels to four more than 40 years ago, winning the 1964 F1 title for Ferrari after achieving seven motorcycling championships.

But the last driver to switch was Venezuela's Johnny Cecotto, who raced in F1 in 1983 and 1984.

If Rossi were to race for Ferrari, he would have the chance to become the first Italian driver to win a title for the Italian team in 50 years - the last was Alberto Ascari in 1952 and 1953.

Although Ferrari said Rossi's session was a private test, Yamaha team boss Davide Brivio was aware of the event - unlike last year.