In a canny move, Ferrari has recruited Hirohide Hamashima, former head of tyre development at Bridgestone.

The 59-year-old joined Bridgestone in 1977, becoming involved in the company's development for F1 programme as early as 1989. Following spells setting up projects for DTM and Indy Car, he was made responsible for the start-up of the F1 project in 1995 and between 1997 and 2010 was head of motorsport tyre development.

Speaking at Ferrari's annual media event in Madonna di Campiglio, team boss Stefano Domenicali said: "He will give his contribution to the development of the car and the issue of the tyres, as this was an issue where last year we suffered in some conditions."

Hamashima, who will report to technical director Pat Fry, worked closely with Ferrari during its golden era in the early 2000s, Bridgestone widely recognised by the Maranello outfit as its most vital partner during a period in which it won thirteen drivers' and constructors' titles.

The Maranello outfit also confirmed that its 2012 challenger will be unveiled on February 3, two days after McLaren unveils its car.

"As has been the case for many years now it will be a very conventional ceremony," said Domenicali. "If the weather is good enough, right from the afternoon of the third, or more likely the following day, the car will run Fiorano to fulfil some promotional obligations, before tackling its first real test at Jerez on 7 February."