Ferrari development role for Pedro de la Rosa

Pedro de la Rosa has joined Ferrari to help develop their Formula 1 cars.

The 41-year-old is without a race seat for the coming season following HRT's departure from the sport.

The Spaniard told reporters: "It is amazingly motivating to be working for a team like Ferrari, not just because of what it represents in the history of Formula 1 and motoring in general, but also because it will be a completely new and very stimulating experience for me.

"I really hope I can get to work as soon as possible and to help in the development of the car. I am happy to be collaborating with Fernando [Alonso] again and also to be working with Felipe [Massa].

"There's not much time until Australia, but there is a lot to do and I am available to help the team from right now."

De la Rosa will mainly undertake simulator work with the team, having spent many years carrying out a similar role for McLaren.

Ferrari are due to unveil their 2013 car on February 1.