What will happen to
So, if Schumacher continues for one more year, that leaves teams lower down the pecking order for Michael’s most recent number two. Of the three, I guess Toro Rosso is proabably the safest bet, but a Ferrari it ain’t. I can’t see Massa driving a Super Aguri, and Midland is also probably out of the question unless Mercedes manage to buy it.
Of course, Michael may decide to hang up his helmet and retire to his Swiss castle, leaving him plenty of time to count his dollars and sip German Hock wine. If that is the case, then Ferrari would undoubtedly retain Massa for another year, ensuring that there is some kind of continuation within the team. And it should be also mentioned that Kimi may not end up wearing a red racing suit next year, although his only viable alternatives are Renault (who appear to have given up) and McLaren (who appear to have been given up on).
What do I think? If Schumacher retires, Massa will continue at Ferrari. If Schumacher continues and Kimi moves to Italy, Massa will either become a test driver for the Scuderia or for another team. Unfortunately, the racing seats are filling fast and Ferrari have said that an announcement won’t come until the Italian Grand Prix on September 10th – by which time there could be even fewer seats available. I think it is going to be testing duties for Massa next year…
Does Massa deserve a drive after his 2006 performance? Should Massa do a years testing in the hope of a drive in 2008? What do you think?
Piquet jr to join Renault team as test driver in 2007. That means :
1- Kovalainen continue at Renault to stay in Renault with Fisichella. 2- Raïkkönen may go to Italy (with Massa or Schumacher) despite the “pushing” from Mercedes to keep the Finn with Alonso.
If Raikkonen does partner Schumacher next year they’ll relegate Massa to test driver. I pity the poor PR officer who has to write that press release as being a step forward for Massa’s career.
I don’t see it happening though – If Schumacher stays it won’t be alongside Raikkonen.
Keith: Why don’t you think Schumacher will partner Raikkonen? Schumacher intervention? Cost? Raikkonen’s pride?