As predicted earlier this week, Rubens Barrichello has been signed to a contract extension that will see him driving for Ferrari in 2003, but in a surprise move, the team has also signed him for 2004.

The Brazilian driver, who joined Ferrari in 2000 from Stewart Grand Prix, will now benefit from continuity and stability as he focuses on results and wins if the opportunity is there. He scored his first and only win for the Maranello marque in 2000 at a wet German Grand Prix.

Before the contract signing, speculation flew freely about Barrichello’s seat. There were claims that Ferrari officials were looking at a more lively talent, with Williams’ Juan-Pablo Montoya and Renault’s Jenson Button both mentioned as possible replacements. However, while insiders claimed that chiefs were interested in them, Ferrari Sporting Director Jean Todt told the “Gazzetta dello Sport” that the team had not contacted either driver.

The Frenchman also said Felipe Massa, the young Sauber driver who was also rumoured to be joining the team, was too young to be promoted.