rossi also drove the ferrari before the start of the 2004 season (or was that 2003?). his "drive" was for 30 minutes. he was able to get within 2 seconds of schumachers lap record. if ducati can sort out their bike by end of 2006 season, i think rossi will be tempted to try for championships with three manufacturers and go to ducati. he has said he would like to drive rally cars rather than F1. he will win an F1 title. maybe 2009 or later if he tries rally cars first. ducati and ferrari want an italian rider/driver to take a title, so will throw huge amounts of money to get him.