Felipe Massa has had his contract extended til 2012 by the Ferrari team today.
The Brazilian had long been rumoured to be on his way out of the team he has driven for since 2002 after a lacklustre start to the season.
But today’s announcement scotched those ideas.
“I am happy to be given the opportunity to drive for Ferrari for a further two seasons,” said Massa.
“Throughout my entire Formula 1 career, I have always raced with an engine made in Maranello and it is a matter of pride for me to be able to continue working with a team that I regard as a second family.”
Team principal Stefano Domenicali alluded to the stability the long-term pairing of Massa with Alonso would bring.
“Felipe has been part of Ferrari for almost a decade and together with us, he has grown as a driver and as a man, going through some very difficult times as well as giving us moments of great happiness,” said Domenicali.
“We wanted to show proof of stability for the future, believing in the worth of a driver pairing that is without equal in terms of talent, speed and its ability to work together for the good of the team.”
