Giancarlo Fisichella’s dream of driving for Ferrari was dealt a blow when Rubens Barrichello renewed his contract – but he’s not bitter.

Ferrari announced on Wednesday that Barrichello had extended his contract with the team for a further two years, taking him to the end of the 2004 season.

Fisichella has made no secret of the fact that his dream is to clinch a drive in one of the scarlet cars, but it seems the Italian will have to settle for testing one instead.

He told Gazzetta dello Sport: "I'm happy for him and not disappointed for myself, but rather satisfied for the opportunities that will emerge.”

As part of Sauber’s growing relationship with Ferrari, it has been arranged that will test for Ferrari, along with his team-mate Felipe Massa, who has been Ferrari’s test driver for a year already.

Fisichella said: "I don't know [the dates]. My manager will soon make plans for the job.

“I hope to have many occasions, because it can be important for the tyres' development.”