Saturday September 4th, 1999

Ferrari announced today thatRubens Barrichello has been signed to drive for the team for the next two seasons, alongside Michael Schumacher. "Ferrari wishes to thank Eddie Irvine for his constructive and loyal collaboration with the team over the past four seasons," a statement read, "Both the team and the driver will put all their efforts and determination into tackling the decisive four remaining races of the Championship."

The Stewart-Ford team sent a message of goodwill to Barrichello today, following his decision to join Ferrari. Barrichello joined the fledgling team from Jordan for the 1997 season and has been the mainstay of the driver line-up since. He had built up a solid working relationship with the team's engineering and design team and his input was invaluable in the design of this year's car – the Stewart-Ford SF3.

Jackie Stewart, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said: "We're sad to see Rubens go. In the three years we have been together he has developed tremendously as a racing driver. He has gone about his business in a professional manner and delivered well for the team. He recorded our first podium finish (Monaco, 1997) and our first pole position (France, 1999) and he has scored two further podiums this season. I wish him all the best in his new endeavour."

Martin Whitaker, Director, Ford Racing, added: "Rubens has played an important role in the development of the Stewart-Ford team and his commitment throughout has been exemplary. Everybody at Ford would like to thank him for everything he has done and we all wish him the best for the future."