The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, a new circuit located near Portimão in southern Portugal, reverberated to the scream of Ferrari Formula 1 engines for the first time in its short history as the Scuderia kicked off two days of testing.

The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, a new circuit located near Portimão in southern Portugal, reverberated to the scream of Ferrari Formula 1 engines on Monday for the first time in its very short history as the Scuderia, along with Formula 1, kicked off two days of testing.

On a day affected by strong winds, Felipe Massa continued with the work the team had initiated last week at Jerez de la Frontera, which centred on an endurance test of the engine and on evaluating a few technical solutions aimed at the forthcoming season, as well as looking into the best set-up on the car, when fitted with the new slick tyres.

Testing ended ahead of schedule, as Felipe was feeling unwell. Up to that point, the Brazilian driver had completed 36 laps, the quickest in a time of 1.32.926. The Scuderia is continuing testing at this circuit today, with Luca Badoer and Marc Gené both set to take to the track.

The Autódromo Internacional do Algarve is located near the city of Portimão, in Sítio do Escampadinho in the parish of Mexilhoeira Grande. The cities of Portimão and Lagos are only only a 10-minute drive from the Algarve Motor Park. The brand new Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, is one of the most modern and multi-functional race circuits in the world, a key facility in the project, with the owners planning to hold a wide range of activities and sports, commercial and leisure events. An integral part of the Algarve Motor Park is the karting circuit nearby, as well as an off-road circuit, a sports complex, a modern technology park and of course a top class tourist resort.

Test Details, 26/12: Circuit: Autódromo Internacional do Algarve - 4.692 km; Driver: Felipe Massa; Car: Ferrari F2008; Weather: air temperature 11/15 °C, track temperature 14/17 °C. Sunny, very windy.