Trio nervous as Ferrari stalls over Massa future

Ferrari has at least a trio of drivers on tenterhooks, as it considers the future of Felipe Massa.

"I hope it will not take very long," the Brazilian, who is pushing hard to up his game and secure a new contract, said at Monza.

"I cannot wait until there are just two races left," he is quoted by Brazil’s O Estado de S.Paulo.

Ferrari reportedly lost patience with Massa’s lack of performance earlier this year, but the 31-year-old has started to achieve some better results in the last few outings.

"He has to get good results," president Luca di Montezemolo told CNN.

"We will see, but I think we have to look to the future and we need two very competitive drivers."

If the rumours sweeping through the paddock are any guide, at the front of the queue are Force India’s Nico Hulkenberg, and Sauber’s Sergio Perez.

German Hulkenberg, whose career is right back to life after losing his Williams seat at the end of 2010, grins every time he hears the ’F’-word now.

"I am sure that I will be in formula one next year," he is quoted by Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport.

Mexican Perez is another hot candidate.

"I think the Sauber team is doing a great job in improving the car," he is quoted by Brazil’s Totalrace, "but obviously if you have an opportunity to get a very good position, you would think about it.

"At the moment I am with Sauber."