Fernando Alonso made his first appearance with Ferrari at the team's World Finals event, despite still being under contract with Renault.
The Spaniard's appearance had been in doubt as he is under contract with the French manufacturer until the end of the year, but was given special permission to attend the event alongside fellow Ferrari drivers Felipe Massa, Luca Badoer, Marc Gene and Giancarlo Fisichella.
The event, at which Ferrari celebrate the end of the motorsport season, was held at the Ricardo Tormo Circuit at Valencia where nearly 17 000 fans showed their support for the team.
The significance of the day was not lost on Alonso who was quick to admit it was a special moment.
"This is a very important day for me, because here I can understand what the world of Ferrari is really like," he said.
The Spaniard wasted no time in announcing his plans for the coming season, one he is confident will be filled with success.
"In 2010 I hope to fight for the world title together with Felipe and that all the fans can be proud of us and our professionalism," he added.
Ferrari chief Luca di Montezemolo for one certainly has no doubts that the pair will excel in 2010.
"For me Felipe and Fernando are the best drivers couple in Formula 1," said di Montezemolo.
"I am convinced that they both will be very motivated and will want to win. I am not worried about having two Latin drivers, which may be for the first time in our history.
"They both know very well that first of all they are racing for Ferrari and not for themselves."
Related Links
Alonso's First Outing In Red
