Rossi to decide by June

Testing regularly for Ferrari, Rossi has impressed many a critic with his incredibly smooth transition from two to four wheels, but he is not holding back about his reservations.

"It is a big gamble and a big risk for Ferrari but not as big as it is for me," he told British newspaper, The News of the World . "We will know something between now and June. I've tried not to think about it for a while now. That way I will have a clearer mind when I have to make the decision."

In light of reports that seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher has signed a new contract with Ferrari for 2007 and 2008 the Scuderia crew may be more willing to take a risk on the two wheel champion. Having veteran Schumacher at his side to guide and advise would surely make for a more successful transition.

But his impressive testing performances were nothing more than that, to many in the Ferrari stables. "I don't think there is an anti-Rossi camp. But there are people who are thinking coldly about the pros and cons," he said.

The seat currently occupied by Brazilian Felipe Massa is set to be a hot one with McLaren's Kimi Raikkonen rumoured to have already signed a letter of interest in moving to Ferrari.