Rossi taking a brave step in F1 test, says Webber

Valentino Rossi is taking a bold step in joining Formula One drivers at a three-day test this week, Australian Mark Webber said. Motorcycling world champion Rossi will drive a Ferrari in Valencia from Tuesday.

It will be the first time the charismatic 26-year-old, who could have a Formula One future with the former champions, has tested alongside other drivers after private sessions in his native Italy.

"He's quite brave, really, to come in and share the circuit with the rest of us," Webber, whose Williams team will be testing their new car in Valencia at the same time, told reporters.

"The guy has obviously got talent, we know that, and he definitely knows which way is up. But to throw him out there on the track with the rest of us... he's always done surprises so who knows how he will go?"