F1: Montezemolo - Perez Not Ready For Ferrari Switch

Formula 1

F1: Montezemolo - Perez Not Ready For Ferrari Switch

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has thrown cold water on speculation that Sergio Perez could replace Felipe Massa next year...

SPEED Staff / GMM | Posted September 12, 2012 GMM Newswire

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has addressed rumors about the team's 2013 driver lineup. (Photo: LAT Photographic)

Luca di Montezemolo has dealt a knockout blow to speculation Sergio Perez could be set to replace Felipe Massa at Ferrari next year.

After his second place at Monza last Sunday, rumors that Sauber's Mexican Perez is now set to step up to Ferrari are rife.

But Ferrari president Montezemolo said: "Next season is too early.

"To put a young guy to Ferrari with the pressure of Ferrari, you need more experience," he told Sky Sports News.

The comments seem to increase the likelihood that Ferrari will simply re-sign the improving Massa for 2013, with rumors still circulating that Sebastian Vettel could then switch from Red Bull for 2014.

Montezemolo admitted he is impressed with the reigning double World Champion.

"He's young, he's a very good driver and he's making a very good experience," he said. "So this could be, of course in the theory, but if you have to ask me the name, I have to tell you this name (Vettel)," he added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

SPEED Staff / GMM

MORE BY THIS AUTHOR

F1: Grand Prix News Briefs (Update 1)
It will be at least June before anything more is known about Bernie…
F1: Ricciardo Has ‘Upper Hand’ For Red Bull Move
Daniel Ricciardo could be Mark Webber's successor...
F1: Grosjean Supports Penalty Points System
French driver served a race ban after a series of on-track incidents...…