Fernando Alonso admires Felipe Massa and down plays Sebastian Vettel's Ferrari dreams – Formula 1
Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso has downplayed the scenario in which he and his arch rival, Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull, will be team-mates in Ferrari colours. Alonso said that he doesn’t see Felipe Massa, his current team mate, being replaced by any other driver
in the near future. Alonso believes that Massa is faster than many drivers on the Formula 1 grid.
Although the reigning champion, Vettel, has committed his future to Red Bull for another four seasons, he once expressed his feelings about Ferrari and said that he would love to drive the ‘Red’ car. Vettel further added that he would pay Alonso or Massa
for a one year trip, to make room for himself to drive the famous Ferrari car.
Alonso was asked about how he would feel if Vettel was his team-mate. Alonso cleverly answered the question and said that his current team mate, Massa, is not a lesser driver than anyone and will not be replaced by any other driver in near future. Alonso
said, “I have never thought about it. In principle I drive the same against any teammate and right now it's Felipe. I don't think there are many drivers who are faster than him [Massa].”
Massa didn’t have a good 2010 season as he finished sixth with 144 points while Alonso finished inches away from the title. Massa has been with the Ferrari team from 2006 and his best finish is second position in the drivers’ championship in 2008. He has
a contract with the Ferrari team until 2012 season.
Talking about the 2008 season Alonso said, “After all, when he [Massa] crossed the line in Brazil in 2008, he was the world champion for a few seconds, so he has to prove to no one how fast and talented he is.” On the other hand, Ferrari’s director, Aldo
Costa, said that the team needs two fast drivers and 2011 will be a decider for Massa.
The practice session of the first Grand Prix of 2011 season starts on Friday in Melbourne which promises a lot of surprises and thrills because of the new rules which are in full force now.
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