Fernando Alonso to miss 1st pre-season test at Jerez

Fernando Alonso will miss the first test of Ferrari's new Formula One car in Spain next month.

Ferrari says Felipe Massa and recently recruited test driver Pedro de la Rosa will try out the new car in Jerez, while Alonso "will intensify his physical training."

Alonso will get behind the wheel for the first time at the Barcelona test, which starts February 19. The two-time champion will drive for the first three days before handing over to Massa for the final day.

The third and final test, also at the Circuit de Catalunya, will see Alonso and Massa get two days each.

Alonso finished runner up to Sebastian Vettel last season, just as he did in 2010.