Ferrari unveil the F150

Ferrari tried to steal a march on their rivals today by being the first team to launch their new car. The 'F150', decked out in traditional red, was launched this morning and is named in honour of the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy, which is to be celebrated this year.

Fernando Alonso takes the new Ferrari for a spin this afternoon

Launched at the team's base in Maranello, Italy, the car was taken out in the afternoon on a damp-looking Fiorano track, Ferrari's private test facility, by first driver Fernando Alonso. The team are said to be 'painfully aware' of how the 2010 title slipped through their fingers after a strategic gamble backfired at the final round in Abu Dhabi, handing Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel the crown. But will the F150 allow drivers Alonso and Felipe Massa to challenge for wins and the championship? Only time will tell. In the meantime, testing proper begins on Tuesday 1st February next week. Be sure to check back here for the latest news and analysis.

Image (c) AP