Alonso says ’not many’ faster than Massa

Fernando Alonso neatly sidestepped the issue when asked if he would welcome Sebastian Vettel as a new Ferrari teammate.

Even though Vettel has now signed to stay at Red Bull for the next four seasons, the reigning world champion has admitted he would like to switch to Ferrari one day.

At famous Italian marque Ferrari, Felipe Massa had a difficult 2010 season and is expected to drive for his career this year.

Asked if he would object to having Vettel alongside him at Ferrari, Spaniard Alonso told Welt newspaper: "I have never thought about it.

"In principle I drive the same against any teammate and right now it’s Felipe."

Asked if he respects his current Brazilian teammate, Alonso told the German newspaper: "Felipe is a great challenger for me. I don’t think there are many drivers who are faster than him.

"After all, when he 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."

However, Massa had a poor season in 2010, but Ferrari’s technical director Aldo Costa told Corriere dello Sport that doesn’t mean he is now the number two.

Asked if the 29-year-old can keep up with Alonso in 2011, Costa answered: "I hope so, because we need two strong drivers.

"But we are only going to find out now that the races are starting," he added.