Bianchi signs long-term Ferrari deal

Ferrari has signed Formula 3 Euro Series champion Jules Bianchi to a long-term deal.

The 20-year-old Frenchman has been given an undefined role within the team, but could become test and reserve driver following his maiden Formula 1 outing at Jerez this week.

"We are very happy to do this long-term deal, which was completed a short time ago," Bianchi's manager Nicolas Todt told AUTOSPORT.

"His role is undefined for the moment, but from now on, he will be at Ferrari's disposal. His first Ferrari drive is obviously at this young driver test."

Ferrari is yet to announce its test and reserve driver for 2010, although it has Giancarlo Fisichella, Luca Badoer and Marc Gene under contract in addition to its race drivers Felipe Massa and Fernando Alonso.

"I am more than happy," said Bianchi, whose race programme next year will be in the GP2 Series with multiple champion team ART. "It is very difficult to explain how I feel, but it is something very special.

"I know this is the first step on a journey that could turn out very nicely, but I'm equally aware that there is still a long way to go to Formula 1."

Source: autosport.com