But then again if he took points off Vettel early on, he wouldn´t be helping later, as he´d be in contention ;)
Yes, I got that but I don't think you can say it would have been worse for Fernando.
Summarizing, a strong Felipe over a year is no good thing for any of the other top guys, same car or different. A poor Felipe with good flashes is more helpful to Alonso´s title bid. And that´s not Ferrari exclusive: a overall poor Perez with good flashes of performance will help Button, and so on. Maybe except if you have Webber alongside, who doesn´t seem to like playing the support role even if he´s out.
I don't know. Ferrari would want Felipe to be able to finish ahead of Vettel, Raikkonen, Hamilton, Button, Webber as much as possible. He will be allowed to race Alonso at the beginning of the year (as has happened in previous years). By the last third of the season, it is unlikely that both Ferrari drivers would still be in true contention and you can deal with that situation as it arises. Frankly, that would be a very positive situation so it is not something to worry about. If, on the other hand, the car is poor, Felipe may have another difficult season.
Edit: If neither of them are in contention, then it doesn't matter that much either.
Webber didn't play support because he didn't have to, but you can be sure he would have dropped back if Vettel needed one more position in Brazil.
There´s no reason to think that he´ll be kicked if he has a good season next time. Why kicking a guy in good shape? Past won´t count anymore if he strarts performing. Also he was retained after 3 poor ones, so... I think he has his future in his own hands. Let´s see if he can deliver over a full year again.
Unless it is a Damon Hill at Williams situation where Ferrari have other plans in train already. I have a feeling Hulkenburg could be in their sights.
Edited by garoidb, 15 December 2012 - 17:55.