Ferrari pushing Rafaelle Marciello towards DTM

Ferrari F1 protege, Rafaelle Marciello, could make his debut in the DTM in 2014, says Autosport.

Marciello, who is part of Ferrari’s Driver Academy, is currently racing in the European Formula 3 Championship and leads the series by 9.5 points from his nearest rival, Felix Rosenqvist.

The Scuderia’s former chief F1 engineer, Luca Baldisserri, currently runs the Ferrari Driver Academy and revealed the 18-year-old could combine a DTM programme with a single-seater campaign next season.

“I think there are three options,” said Baldisserri. “One is GP2, because it’s the same tracks as Formula 1 and the same tyres, so he can get used to the Pirelli behaviour.

“Then there is the World Series by Renault, which is a very good package; a lot of downforce, really good tyres with a lot of grip in the corners and a good championship.

“And then I think there’s DTM as well. In terms of professional qualities of the teams, it’s the closest to Formula 1. And for a young driver, having the possibility to have some rhythm with a really organised and professional team is important.

“A programme in DTM would be a shame for a driver like ‘Lello’ on its own, but not if it’s coupled with another championship.”

Should Marciello move to the DTM, Baldisserri added the brand of any potential seat for the young Italian would not be important, given Ferrari’s parent company Fiat has no influence in the DTM.

“For us [the manufacturer] is not a big deal; we are focusing on the driver.”