Ferrari is not a team that develops drivers. They prefer other teams to do that and then lure the top driver to their team with their (Ferrari) reputation and money. So that would rule out young drivers.

Alonso stated that he would have no problem with Vettel and that would indicate to me that he does not consider him to become a threat. I think Alonso will choose an established competent driver able to score points but willing to take money to know their place. Glock or Kovalainen could move to Ferrari for one year and then return to the lower teams.

Hamilton will stick with McLaren. I think the delay is a ploy to ensure he gets the best possible deal and try to extract more backing from sponsors.

If Kubica became fit and available then that would shake up the market even more. However, he has a very dominant personality which would not suit some teams or be compatible with certain team mates.

It would surprise me to see di Resta in a top team next year.

Wouldn't

I was going to write a paragraph about Di Resta, but I didnt want to risk making it too complicated sorry haha, it's long enough as it is... IF schumacher retires, you could bet every penny you have that Di Resta would be in with a shout at either Mercedes to partner Rosberg, or McLaren (should Lewis leave) to partner Button....

I believe the only change we will see is Perez replacing Massa at Ferrari.

Schumacher will remain at Mercedes and I think Hamilton will replace him when he retires

I do not rate di resta at all and I haven't seen anything from him that would warrant a top ride.

If I were Hamilton, I would be eyeing up that lotus car. It's phenomenal

If Vettel knows what's good for him, he will remain with the drinks company.

The only drivers on the grid that Alonso wouldn't want as a team-mate would be Schumacher (despite his age) and Raikkonen.

What happens to Alonso in all of this if Vettel and Perez are both going to Ferrari?

Don't like the guy really, but he's still one of the best drivers in the sport.

I don't think there will be much movement for 2013, but 2014 a different story.

2013
Red Bull - Vettel & Webber
Ferrari - Alonso & Massa/Perez/di Resta
McLaren - Hamilton & Button
Lotus - Raikkonen & Grosjean
Mercedes - Rosberg & Schumacher/Sutil/di Resta

So 2 spots for me - I have a cheeky suspicion that Schummy will extend for another 2 years (don't think he's ready to quit yet) and maybe di Resta will sign a 1 year contract with Ferrari.

Welshy

Reckon you could be right, MS will want to go out on a bit of a high. Reckon he'll see what the developments are like and if they're in a position to challenge for race wins.

The di Resta bit at Ferrari, well that's just personal preference coming in I think. I would be surprised at all if they just extend Massa for one more season + then 'if' the rumours about Vettel having signed a pre-contract with Ferrari for 2014 are true then Vettel replaces Massa in 2014 and drivers alongside Alonso

So I suspect Massa would need a very good 2013 to try and tie up a deal for somewhere for 2014 (although I can't see him driving for a top team again - do like the guy tho).

As for Schumy, the guy is obviously still very hungry for F1 + I although he must have been delighted with a pole (of sorts at Monaco) and a podium a race or two back I'm convinced he won't be happy till he wins a race/challenges for an 8th title. Mercedes definately could have a title challenging car within the next 2 years - so why would he quit just yet. Age is obviously not a factor for him - like him or loathe him he's still good enough to compete with the rest.

wouldn't be surprised that should have said 2nd paragraph

1st paragraph - stop now rich! (welsh)